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.

october also hosts the highly anticipated yearly naval academy regatta, (regata escola naval) a sailing competition created in 1946 to maintain alive the great and fearless maritime spirit of future officers.