One of the favorite activities for locals and tourists is attending samba circles in Rio de Janeiro. This tradition, so deeply rooted in the city, takes us to the heart and soul of Cariocas, who have a deep love for music and culture.
Check out where to find the five most traditional and popular samba circles in Rio de Janeiro.
How did samba circles come about?
Samba circles emerged in the backyards of “tias” (aunties) in the Praça Onze area, in the early 20th century, in the city center. These spaces became gathering spots for people to listen to samba and showcase their music, which drew inspiration from African rhythms while also absorbing influences from polka and maxixe.
Some classics of Brazilian music emerged in samba circles. One example is “Pelo Telefone” by Donga. This was the first samba recording in Brazil and was created in a samba circle at the house of Tia Ciata, one of the rhythm’s early enthusiasts in the city.
Here at Parque Bondinho, we host Samba Circles every Sunday from 3 PM to 6 PM at the Discs Area.
Where to find the main samba circles in Rio de Janeiro
Samba do Trabalhador
A samba circle on Mondays that calls itself the “worker’s” samba? Before you think it’s strange, let’s clarify which worker we’re talking about. Samba do Trabalhador began as a fun gathering for musicians in the city, who work on weekends and have Mondays off.
Created by musician Moacyr Luz, this samba circle takes place at Clube Renascença in Tijuca, starting at 4 PM. Arrive early so you don’t miss surprise performances by samba stars such as singer Teresa Cristina and singer Jorge Aragão, who often make appearances.
Pedra do Sal
Located in the Pequena África (Little Africa) region in downtown Rio, Pedra do Sal is closely tied to the origins of Carioca samba. In this region, enslaved people arrived from Africa and were sold to Brazilian farmers. Today, it’s a place to celebrate culture and music. Every week, musicians perform on Mondays and Fridays at 6 PM, with no entrance fee or reserved seating. Just show up and enjoy the music!
Beco do Rato
Lapa, Rio de Janeiro’s bohemian neighborhood, is also famous for its samba circles. Beco do Rato is a bar that hosts samba circles featuring a mix of renowned artists and rising stars in the music scene. Check the bar’s weekly schedule on their website.
Cacique de Ramos
Heading to the city’s suburbs, those looking for an authentic samba circle should go to Cacique de Ramos. In the shade of the historic tamarind tree in its backyard, now-famous artists like Zeca Pagodinho, Arlindo Cruz, and Beth Carvalho were discovered. Samba takes place every Sunday, starting at 5 PM—and on the third Sunday of each month, it’s feijoada day. Yum!
Baródromo
Have you ever thought of a bar decorated to look like a samba school parade? If that’s what you’re looking for, Baródromo is the place for you. In addition to samba-inspired decor and menu, this bar in Maracanã hosts weekly samba circles. It’s open Tuesday to Thursday from 5 PM to midnight; Friday from 5 PM to 1 AM; Saturday from noon to 1 AM; and Sunday and holidays from noon to 10 PM.
Now that you know some of Rio de Janeiro’s samba circles, how about reading more about the must-see tourist attractions in the Marvelous City?
Check out our social media for the Samba no Parque schedule and the regular events happening here!