Circo Voador
Circo Voador (Flying Circus) sits at the foot of the Arcos da Lapa as an open-air concert venue that's hosted everyone from Caetano Veloso to international touring acts since 1982. The space holds a few thousand people under a tent-like structure that lets you feel the warm Rio air while bands play. The booking ranges from MPB legends to rock, reggae, hip-hop, and electronic music nights. The venue played a crucial role in Rio's cultural renaissance in the 1980s and still draws crowds who remember that era alongside younger fans discovering it fresh. When Circo Voador gets a good band on a warm night, there's nothing else like it in the city.
What to Expect
An open-air concert in one of Rio's most iconic venues. The atmosphere depends entirely on who's playing, but the space always delivers something special. The location under the Arcos da Lapa arches adds drama. On the right night, this is the best live music experience in the city.
Open-air, electric, and steeped in Rio's cultural history.
Live concerts spanning MPB, rock, reggae, hip-hop, electronic, and Brazilian pop
Casual. Concert attire.
Live music fans who want to experience one of Rio's most historically significant venues.
Cards and cash accepted
Price Range
Tickets R$40-150 depending on the artist
≈ €6–24 / $7–26
Hours
Show nights only, doors usually open 7-8 PM
Insider Tip
Buy tickets online in advance for popular shows. Check the schedule; Circo Voador programs across genres and quality varies with the booking. Comfortable shoes for standing.
Address
Rua dos Arcos, s/n
Other Venues in Lapa
Rio Scenarium
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Carioca da Gema
Intimate samba and choro venue with nightly performances from well-known local musicians. The small dance floor fills fast, so arriving before 10 PM on weekends is a good idea.
Fundição Progresso
Converted 19th-century iron foundry now operating as a large event space for concerts, DJ nights, and cultural festivals. The industrial interior gives it a raw, warehouse-party feel.
Lapa 40 Graus
Multi-room club spread across several floors with DJs playing funk carioca, forró, and samba on different stages. Cover charges are low and the crowd skews young and local.
Mangue Seco Cachaçaria
Cachaça-focused bar with an extensive list of artisanal spirits from across Brazil and reliable caipirinhas. The sidewalk tables spill onto the street on busy nights, typical of the Lapa bar scene.