on october 31st, halloween in rio de janeiro puts a carioca spin on this celtic-turned-american festivity. 

honoring the day during which the spirits can contact the living, cariocas throw tons of public and private parties, costume events, and small blocos (street parties). 

ancient bonfires, traditionally lit as an homage celebrating the sun god and samhain the lord of death and used to scare away evil spirits, turned into all-night modern celebration of life.

november 2nd is remembrance day (dia de finados) and rio de janeiro honors this date sober public commemorative celebrations and events.