Created in 1977, the International Day of Museums on may 18 aims to raise awareness about the role of museums in the development of society -  Brazil  celebrates the date, with each year seeing more then 1200 museums offering thousands of special events.

Exhibitions, seminars, workshops, discussions, film screenings, theater, dance and musical performances are some examples of events promoted by participating museums.

In rio de janeiro the museum of modern art is among the most important participants, as well as the Museu de Arte do Rio, and the museum of contemporary art in niterói.