🌴 Public Holidays 2026 in Rio de Janeiro: the perfect year for those who love to travel
☀️ 2026 promises: a year packed with days off and incredible trips around Rio
You can mark your calendar: the 2026 public holidays in Rio de Janeiro promise to be a real gift for anyone who loves hitting the road, enjoying the city, and soaking up the sun along the waterfront. 😎
With several national and local holidays falling on Mondays and Fridays, next year will make life easier for anyone who loves to create long weekends and turn the weekend into a mini-vacation.
And of course, Rio de Janeiro, always among the most sought-after destinations in Brazil, should shine even more with tourism on the rise — from Carnival street parties to beach days in September.
💡 Smart tip: take a look at our 3-day itinerary in Rio de Janeiro to plan your first long holiday weekend of the year.
📅 National public holidays in Brazil in 2026
Brazil will have 10 national public holidays, in addition to optional observances and state dates. Take a look at the main ones:
| Date | Holiday | Day of the Week |
|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Universal Fellowship (New Year’s Day) | Thursday |
| February 16 and 17 | Carnival | Monday and Tuesday |
| April 3 | Good Friday | Friday |
| April 21 | Tiradentes | Tuesday |
| April 23 | Saint George’s Day (holiday in RJ) | Thursday |
| May 1 | Labor Day | Friday |
| June 4 | Corpus Christi (holiday in RJ) | Thursday |
| September 7 | Independence of Brazil | Monday |
| October 12 | Our Lady of Aparecida | Monday |
| November 2 | All Souls’ Day | Monday |
| November 15 | Proclamation of the Republic | Sunday |
| November 20 | Black Consciousness Day | Friday |
| December 25 | Christmas | Friday |
🧳 Long weekends that will boost tourism
In 2026, the long holiday weekends will be well distributed throughout the year, which is perfect for planning short trips and enjoying the best of Rio in different seasons.
- 🌊 Summer (Jan–Mar): perfect for enjoying the beaches and Carnival, with Rio’s heat at its peak.
- 🌺 Autumn (Apr–Jun): milder temperatures, ideal for hikes and cultural outings.
- ☀️ Spring (Sep–Nov): a great time for festivals, events, and that late afternoon by the Lagoon.
- 🎄 Year-end: Christmas and New Year’s Eve with an ocean view — a tradition Rio locals know better than anyone!
Need inspiration? Also check out our posts on the best free outings in Rio de Janeiro and the must-see places to enjoy the sunset.
🏨 Positive impact on Rio tourism
The generous calendar promises to increase hotel occupancy, boost bars, restaurants, and tourist attractions, and give domestic tourism a welcome push.
According to specialists, long holiday weekends are one of the main drivers for the sector — especially in cities like Rio, which combine natural beauty, cultural life, and hospitality.
And for those who live here, it’s the perfect excuse to rediscover the city: a weekend in the mountains, a tour of the islands of Guanabara Bay, or a visit to MAR and the Museum of Tomorrow.
🌴 Want to plan an unforgettable holiday? Also check out our 2026 Tourist Circuit guide — which shows the year’s best cultural and gastronomic itineraries.
🗓️ How to make the most of the 2026 public holidays in Rio de Janeiro
- 🧭 Create your personal calendar: combine holidays with days off and extend weekends.
- ✈️ Book in advance: prices rise quickly on long holiday weekends.
- 🏝️ Explore beyond the waterfront: trails, waterfalls, markets, and historical tours are great options.
- 🎶 Include local events: check the schedule for the 2026 Carnival mega street parties and Rio Fashion Week 2026.
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