Feira de Sao Cristovao

This entry could just as easily go in the nightlife section, as the Feira Nordestino is essentially one long weekend party, Friday to Sunday featuring exclusively forró, the dance-happy accordion two-step of Brazil's Northeast. Two large stages at either end of this market complex feature alternating bands, while more forró bleats out from three or four smaller restaurants in the no man's land between. In addition to the music, there are lots of shops selling Nordestino arts and crafts, and stalls and restaurants offering Northeastern cuisine. Visitors wander the shops, sample the snacks, and let their feet hippity hop to the happy accordion beat. The intriguing fair building -- you'll see its swooping walls as you come in from the airport -- replaced a field full of shacks where Rio's Northeastern community used to do much the same thing every weekend, just without official permission. The feira is also open for lunch during the week, but really, there's not much point. Note: The inside of the fairgrounds are quite safe, but don't go wandering the surrounding neighborhood after dark. Take a taxi there, and another one home.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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