Ranging from festive celebrations to solemn remembrances, there are a number of key dates which are commemorated in Rio for their cultural, historical, and social importance to the city's people.

Because of the strong religious current that pulses through the city, a number of important Catholic figures and saints are commemorated every year, as well foundational historical events.

On these more serious occasions, there tends to be a mood of restful contemplation - Rio's residents enjoy a day off work, and can usually be found basking on the beaches that line the city - traffic is much reduced and sometimes a military parade can be seen descending the principal avenues of the historical neighborhoods.