It's the first full weekend of 2026, fam! The Christmas shows are winding down, but we've got some fresh theatre kicks and early summer fun lined up. Don't miss the premiere of Masha e o Urso: Missão no Circo for the little ones, and if you're looking for something totally different, check out the Verão na Casa Firjan activities!
Quick Picks
Exposição Viva Maurício
CCBB RJ
Free entry to a cool exhibition at the cultural center.
Masha e o Urso: Missão no Circo
Teatro Claro Rio
The little ones will love this new circus adventure show, perfect for indoors.
Brincar é ciência no Museu do Amanhã
Museu do Amanhã
Interactive science fun at the famous museum, great for curious toddlers.
Verão na Casa Firjan 2026
Casa Firjan usually hosts a vibrant summer program; check their schedule for workshops, games, and activities kicking off the season. It’s often a good mix of tech, creativity, and hands-on fun for various ages.
Why we picked it: It signals the start of the true summer programming for the year.
Exposição Viva Maurício
This exhibition celebrates the life and work of the famous cartoonist Maurício de Sousa. It’s a great way to see classic characters like Mônica and Cebolinha in a cultural setting.
Why we picked it: It’s a fantastic, high-quality cultural outing that is completely free.
Brincar é ciência no Museu do Amanhã – Férias de Janeiro 2026
The Museum of Tomorrow usually has special science-play sessions during the school holidays. This is perfect for igniting curiosity about the future and the world around them.
Why we picked it: It’s a dedicated January school holiday activity at a world-class location.
Masha e o Urso: Missão no Circo
This is a brand new show debuting this weekend based on the popular cartoon duo. It’s a surefire hit for the younger crowd who recognize Masha and the Bear right away.
Why we picked it: It's a brand new premiere show happening right on the first weekend of the year!
Colônia de Férias Quintal Brincante – Tear
Since it's January, many day camps (Colônias de Férias) are running; check out Tear's program for structured, supervised activities. This is great if you need a few hours for yourself while the kids are entertained.
Why we picked it: It's an excellent option for structured, all-day holiday fun.
BioParque do Rio (Check for Jan specials)
The former RioZoo has been brilliantly revamped into a conservation park focusing on immersive habitats. Go early to see the animals when they are most active in the summer heat.
Why we picked it: It's an excellent outdoor experience focusing on education and conservation.
Picnic no Parque Lage
Pack a simple lunch and enjoy the magical courtyard and gardens of Parque Lage before the heat of the day really sets in. It’s gorgeous, free, and less crowded than the big attractions.
Why we picked it: It's a perfect, low-cost, naturally beautiful Saturday morning activity.
Fazendinha Rio
Get out to Vargem Grande for a farm experience where kids can see and interact with animals in a controlled setting. It’s a great way to spend a sunny Sunday morning outside the main city buzz.
Why we picked it: It's a classic, open-air farm experience perfect for the summer weekend.
Pequeños Exploradores (CCBB)
A special guided, playful exploration session aimed at the littlest ones inside the beautiful CCBB building. Check if the Sunday slot is part of their regular Saturday/Holiday schedule.
Why we picked it: It's a genuinely free, structured activity specifically for toddlers.
AquaRio (Check for Jan specials)
The largest aquarium in South America is always a winner, especially if the January sun gets too intense or a quick storm rolls through. The shark tunnel is a must-see for everyone.
Why we picked it: It's a reliable, high-value indoor activity for any weather.
Chaves: A Exposição Rio de Janeiro
If your teens grew up watching El Chavo del Ocho, this exhibition is a nostalgia trip disguised as a fun day out. See set recreations and iconic props.
Why we picked it: It taps into huge Latin American cultural nostalgia that older kids and parents love.
Passeio de Barco/Bicicleta na Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas
Rent a pedalinho (pedal boat) or grab some bikes for a classic Carioca weekend activity around the iconic lagoon. It’s great exercise with stunning views of the city.
Why we picked it: A timeless outdoor activity that capitalizes on the January summer weather.
Jardim Botânico
Wander through the incredible Avenue of Royal Palms and look for cool insects and birds. It’s a great way to get some shaded greenery during the peak summer season.
Why we picked it: It's a reliable, beautiful nature spot that's less strenuous than hiking in the heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Rio de Janeiro this weekend?
This weekend (Jan 03-04), you can enjoy a completely free cultural afternoon at the Exposição Viva Maurício at CCBB RJ [rio-janeiro-2]. Also, check out the Pequeños Exploradores at CCBB on Sunday [rio-janeiro-6] for a free guided play session, though entry to the building for the main exhibition is free all weekend.
What's the best indoor/rainy day option for kids this weekend?
If the weather turns, the brand-new kids' show Masha e o Urso: Missão no Circo at Teatro Claro Rio [rio-janeiro-4] is a great bet, or you can cool off surrounded by sea creatures at AquaRio [rio-janeiro-8].
Are there any great outdoor activities for younger kids (under 5) this weekend?
For the little ones, the Fazendinha Rio in Vargem Grande [rio-janeiro-5] offers a wonderful farm experience, or stick closer to the city for the free Pequeños Exploradores activity at CCBB RJ [rio-janeiro-6] on Sunday morning.