Porto Alegre Events, Things to Do and Festivals 2014 / 2015

(Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil)

As with most cities in Brazil, the carnival festival season in Porto Alegre is not to be missed and its origins date back to the 18th century, when events included the Portuguese tradition of throwing 'limao de cheiro' (flour and water) in the streets - the beginning of this annual merriment.

Today, the Porto Alegre carnival includes the typical parade of colourful floats, samba dancing, costumed performers and similar things to see and do, with the revelry lasting around four days. The events commence when the mayor hands over the city's keys to the carnival king (Rei Momo), in a fun ceremony.

Porto Alegre Calendar of Festivals and Events 2014 / 2015

Although the carnival season form the pinnacle of the events calendar in Porto Alegre, it is by no means the only festival worth attending. The city is considered amongst Brazil's best for concerts, and many major international artists have performed here in recent years, including the likes of Avril Lavigne and Beyoncé, as well as countless other singers and groups.

Further prominent events and festivals include the World Social Forum, which is regularly hosted by Porto Alegre and known to attract in excess of 100,000 visitors to the city. Porto Alegre Summer (Porto Verao Alegre) is another successful event and takes place annually during the height of the Brazilian summer season (December to February). Celebrations draw some 50,000 people and include an array of performing arts, with theatrical events, dance festivals, live music and art exhibitions.

Also of note is the Worldwide Pinhole Photography event on the last Sunday each April in Porto Alegre, and the regular Handicraft Fair (Brique da Redencao), which takes place on Sundays at Farroupilha Park. In the middle of September, the Farroupilha Festival brings parades, music and lots of tasty food to enjoy, commemorating the Farroupilha Revolution (1835 to 1845).

Every other year in Porto Alegre, between October and December, the Mercosur Biennial Exhibition remains a strong draw card, while in November, the Feira do Livro (Bookfair) at the Praca da Alfandega boasts a staggering attendance figure regularly topping two million people, making it one of the biggest events of its kind in Latin America.