religious syncretism, another instance of rio's propensity to assimilate and improve, can be easily seen in the traditional throwing of flowers in the ocean for new years' eve - a gesture belonging to african religions that in the city was embraced by people of many other churches.

music is a vital part of rio's culture, it is highly valued and it permeates all aspects of the city's life. rio's international airport is named after tom jobim, one of the fathers of bossa nova, and important streets in may parts of rio are named after famous musicians.   

knowing how to dance is quite important in rio and expected at all ages - in many parts of town, young and older people gather, sing, and dance to the same songs, showing a cultural integration not only across ethnicities, but across ages as well.