Tonight in Rio: A relaxed pre-holiday Sunday with traditional Samba do Domingo at Carioca da Gema (19:30), roots samba at Rio Scenarium (19:00), intimate bossa nova and jazz sets at Beco das Garrafas (20:00), and a jazz session at Blue Note Rio (20:00). Links for details and reservations are below.
Top Picks Tonight
Samba do Domingo — Carioca da Gema (19:30)
- Why picked: Lapa’s iconic venue hosts its weekly Sunday roda—communal, rhythmic energy perfect for expats winding down the weekend with authentic carioca samba.
- Start: 19:30
- Address: Av. Mem de Sá, 79, Lapa (Centro)
- Website: barcariocadagema.com.br/shows
Roots Samba Sunday — Rio Scenarium (19:00)
- Why picked: Antique-filled multi-level Centro venue offers lively roots samba—historical ambiance with dance and warmth for expats’ cultured Sunday evening.
- Start: 19:00
- Address: Rua do Lavradio, 20, Centro
- Website: rioscenarium.com.br
Bossa Nova & Jazz Sets — Beco das Garrafas (20:00)
- Why picked: Historic birthplace of bossa nova presents intimate performances—cozy, melodic Sunday option near Copacabana beach for expats appreciating Rio’s musical legacy.
- Start: 20:00
- Address: Rua Duvivier, 37, Copacabana
- Event page: becodasgarrafas.com.br/principal/events
Jazz Session — Blue Note Rio (20:00)
- Why picked: Premier club delivers sophisticated jazz with ocean views—elegant choice for expats enjoying high-quality live music to close the weekend.
- Start: 20:00
- Address: Avenida Atlântica, 1910, Copacabana
- Website: bluenoterio.com.br
Rio Nightlife Guide for Sunday, December 21, 2025
Also notable
-
Pedra do Sal Roda de Samba (19:00 onward)
— Largo Pedro do Sal, Centro. Free spontaneous street gatherings—authentic communal vibe.
-
Holiday lights and casual strolls in Cinelândia
— Praça Floriano, Centro. Festive December atmosphere with people-watching.
Suggested route
Centro/Lapa: Start at Rio Scenarium (19:00) for roots samba, then 10-minute walk to Carioca da Gema (19:30)—seamless historic district flow.
Copacabana: Blue Note jazz (20:00) to Beco das Garrafas (20:00) stroll—relaxed beachfront Sunday close.
Getting around & quick tips
- Use registered taxis/ride-hailing between Centro, Lapa, and Copacabana; Metro reliable pre-midnight (Carioca ↔ Siqueira Campos).
- Arrive 20–30 minutes early for seated venues; bring photo ID. Most accept cards.
Listings gathered for Sunday, December 21, 2025. Recheck venue sites for any last-minute programming close to showtime.
