Belo Horizonte, the vibrant capital of Minas Gerais, Brazil, hosts a variety of events throughout the year that celebrate its rich culture and traditions. Here’s a snapshot of some key happenings in Belo Horizonte:
Cultural Festivals and Events
1. Comida di Buteco
- When: April
- Overview: This popular food festival celebrates the best of local bars (butecos) and their petiscos (snack-sized dishes). It’s a competition where visitors can vote for their favorite dishes.
2. Festival Internacional de Teatro Palco & Rua de Belo Horizonte (FIT-BH)
- When: Biennially in May
- Overview: This international theater festival features performances by local and international troupes in both conventional theaters and public spaces around the city.
3. Inhotim at Night
- When: Several times a year, usually including specific dates in the summer
- Overview: The famous Inhotim open-air museum opens its doors at night for special viewings, offering a unique experience to see art and nature under the stars.
Music Festivals
4. Festival Natura Musical
- When: Annually in September
- Overview: One of the largest free music festivals in Brazil, showcasing a mix of famous and upcoming Brazilian musicians in various genres.
5. MecaInhotim
- When: Annually, usually in July
- Overview: A blend of music festival and cultural experience set in the stunning environment of Inhotim, combining great music with art exhibitions.
Art and Film Festivals
6. Campanha de Popularização do Teatro & Dança
- When: January to February
- Overview: This campaign aims to make theater and dance more accessible to the public, offering shows at reduced prices across the city.
7. Belo Horizonte International Short Film Festival
- When: Annually in August
- Overview: A film festival dedicated to short films, featuring international and national productions, encouraging the exchange of cultural and cinematic ideas.
Holiday and Seasonal Events
8. Carnival
- When: February or March, depending on the year
- Overview: While not as famous as Rio’s, Belo Horizonte’s Carnival has grown significantly, offering numerous street parties and samba school parades.
9. Christmas Lighting
- When: December
- Overview: Belo Horizonte lights up with Christmas decorations, particularly notable at Praça da Liberdade, which becomes a major attraction with its festive lights and decorations.
These events reflect the dynamic cultural landscape of Belo Horizonte, offering year-round activities that cater to a wide range of interests, from theater and music to traditional festivals and innovative art experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these happenings provide a rich taste of the city’s diverse cultural offerings.