May is here and it starts with a holiday. So nothing could be fairer than putting together a special program full of things to do in Rio de Janeiro in May!
So feel free to choose the ones you like best.
Editor’s note: this guide will be updated throughout the month, so keep an eye out so you don’t miss any tips!
Stranger Things: The Experience
The Inverted World has already arrived in Rio de Janeiro! So how about taking advantage of the month of May to enjoy Stranger Things: The Experience?
In this experience, you’ll enter the universe of one of television’s most beloved series and take part in a mysterious experiment at Hawkins Laboratory.
You can also enjoy the incredible 80s Mix-Tape, with themed food and drinks, special products, photo opportunities and much more! Get your tickets now!
Candlelight Concerts
Among the things to do in Rio de Janeiro in May, have you ever imagined attending a candlelight show at the Museum of Tomorrow or the PRIO Theater?
Well, the Candlelight Concerts are taking place in the city’s most iconic venues and tickets are on sale – and flying! So take the opportunity to choose your date and get yours now!
Check out the schedule for May:
- Candlelight: Tribute to Tropicália (Veloso, Gil and more) – May 10, at the Museum of Tomorrow;
- Candlelight: Coldplay x Imagine Dragons – May 11, at the Museum of Tomorrow;
- Candlelight: Magical Soundtracks – May 11, at the Museum of Tomorrow;
- Candlelight: Rock Classics from Queen to Pink Floyd – May 22, at the PRIO Theater;
- Candlelight: Tribute to Linkin Park – May 22, at the PRIO Theater.
Lady Gaga concert in Copacabana
After all the buzz, Lady Gaga fans can breathe a sigh of relief! After all, she is actually coming to Rio de Janeiro in May and will be performing a free megashow on Copacabana Beach!
The performance is scheduled for May 3 and the singer promises to rock cariocas and tourists with her unforgettable songs and hits from her new album, released this year!
Comida di Buteco
One of Cariocas’ favorite gastronomic events is already underway and you have until May 11 to try the delights of the Comida di Buteco!
In this year’s competition, more than 100 bars in Rio de Janeiro are competing for the title, with themed snacks that celebrate the 25 years of the contest.
In fact, did you know that the 2024 champion was a bar from Rio de Janeiro? That’s right, Bar Peixaria Divina Providência, located in Irajá, in the North Zone, kicked ass and took the title!
Now Inês is Dead
What do you think about seeing a play this May? The show ‘Agora Inês é Morta’ (Now Inês is Dead ) is on and recalls the tragic love story that marked the Portuguese court.
This is because the play is based on the brutal murder of Galician Inês de Castro and proposes a reflection on the intensity of feelings and the strength of passion.
And if you want to see the best plays in Rio de Janeiro, check out our complete guide!
📅 Until 29/05 | Thursdays, at 8pm
📌 Teatro dos 4 | Shopping da Gávea
💵 From R$ 50, (half-price)
The Jury Experience
Have you ever thought about taking part in a live trial and still having the power to decide the defendant’s fate?
That’s what The Jury Experience is all about, an experience that challenges participants to confront moral issues in a unique way !
With an authentic courtroom setting, we guarantee: it will be 60 minutes that will leave you on the edge of your seat, with sharp arguments from the lawyers and dramatic interrogations! Are the Cariocas ready to give their verdict?
Art galleries
There are many art galleries in Rio de Janeiro, with the best of popular and contemporary art, as well as classic works. However, some places offer a completely new perspective on different artistic manifestations.
That’s why we’ve made a list here of the galleries in Rio that you can’t miss in May (or any other time of year)!
Brunch in Rio de Janeiro
Starting the day with bread, cakes, pancakes and other delicacies is a great choice for those who love a light and unhurried program. And that’s exactly what brunch is all about, a meal that combines breakfast and lunch.
In this list, we’ve put together some of the best brunches in town. Choose your favorite!
Royal Portuguese Cabinet
One of the most beautiful libraries in the world, the Real Gabinete Português is a place worth visiting not only in May, but at any time of the year.
With imposing architecture and full of important titles, the place is open to the public on weekdays from 10am to 5pm, with free admission. And yes, you can pick up a book to read!
Mother’s Day
Not everyone can or is able to celebrate the date, but Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday in May.
So, if you can be with your loved one on this date, take advantage of this list of things to do in Rio de Janeiro in May to celebrate in the best way possible, whether it’s strolling around the city or enjoying a good time at home with the family.