this is a perfect chance to witness the changing of the guard in flamengo, at the monument to the soldiers killed in world war ii, the monumento aos pracinhas (veterans) -  there, on the first sunday of every month the army, the navy and the air force hold a ceremonial changing of the guard with a marine band and a parade.

may - mother's day (dia das măes) is an annual holiday celebrated around the world to honor mothers and grandmothers and all they do for their families.

although mother's day may occur on different days of the year, the majority of countries recognize it as falling on the second sunday of may, including brazil - mother's day in rio de janeiro is particularly heartfelt, by all cariocas of all ages, special children's performances and church gatherings, normally leading to large, multi generational barbecues and parties.