Jericoacoara, located in the state of Ceará, Brazil, is a place that truly comes alive at night. As the sun sets, the village transforms into a vibrant hub of music, dance, and delicious local food. Whether you're a fan of traditional Brazilian rhythms or electronic beats, Jericoacoara has something for everyone. From lively forró music to relaxing spa sessions, the nightlife here offers a wide range of experiences for every visitor.
Dance and Music in Jericoacoara
As night falls, Jericoacoara’s bars come alive with the sounds of live music. Local musicians, typically with a voice and accordion setup, fill the streets with rhythm. It’s common to see spontaneous "arrasta-pé" dances—traditional partner dances from the Northeast of Brazil—while enjoying a cold beer or a plate of shrimp.
One of the best places to experience forró, the iconic rhythm of the region, is at Restaurante Dona Amélia, located on Rua do Forró. Here, the sound of forró fills the air, with a vibrant atmosphere and walls adorned with portraits of famous northeastern personalities like Dominguinhos and Luiz Gonzaga. Another great spot for forró is Maloca, which operates from Thursday to Saturday.
Explore the Rhythms of Brazil
While forró is a highlight, Jericoacoara also offers other Brazilian music genres. As you stroll along the sandy streets, you’ll hear the soothing sounds of MPB (Música Popular Brasileira) and samba. The village even hosts impromptu pagode parties, with no fixed location. For electronic music lovers, Café Jeri is the place to be, offering DJ sets from Wednesday to Sunday, 4 PM to 10 PM. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy sunset views over Jericoacoara Beach, while the music sets the mood.
Beachfront Fun and Local Drinks
When the evening gets darker, the action shifts to the end of Rua Principal, near the beach. A lively crowd gathers between two rows of local drink carts, where you can try capifrutas (fruit-infused alcoholic drinks), caipirinhas, and the irresistible coconut batida, made with condensed milk. Some drink names are humorously inspired by male anatomy.
As the clock strikes 9 PM, a stage comes to life with live performances, usually featuring piseiro, a popular music style in the Northeast. Locals and visitors alike kick off their sandals and dance in the sand, making for a unique and fun experience.
A Relaxing Evening in Jericoacoara
For those who prefer a more relaxed evening, Jericoacoara offers plenty of tranquil options. You can enjoy a delightful dinner at Samba Rock, a colorful bar-restaurant near the square that always has live music or DJ performances. For a more serene experience, you can even indulge in a quick massage at Spa Lual, which sets up massage chairs right on Rua Principal.
Shopping is another enjoyable evening activity in Jericoacoara. Many shops selling clothing, jewelry, and decor remain open during dinner hours, giving you plenty of time to browse. Don't miss the local knitwear shops, where talented artisans create beautiful handmade pieces.
