The culture in the city of Florianopolis also called Floripa, is considered by many of its visitors to be unique and colorful. Divided into two districts, the city offers tourists two settings to experience: a metropolitan area that’s known for its vigorous nightlife and huge shopping centers, and a rural area that provides a relaxing “beach town” setting.

Most of the people in Florianopolis, around 74% of them, are Roman Catholics. But while it also has celebrations rooted in the religion, the city’s biggest festivals take its roots more on the way of living in Floripa.

One of these is the National Oyster Festival and Azorean Culture Festival which takes place during the month of October. The festival came about to celebrate the city’s importance in the production and distribution of oyster throughout the country. Music can be heard around the city during these times. On the streets, the arts and crafts of the Azoreans are also displayed, making it the perfect time for tourists to buy souvenirs or at least get a glimpse of the other side of the city’s culture. A wide variety of oysters are also presented for everyone to taste and enjoy.

As Brazil is known for around the world, carnivals in Florianopolis is another famous celebration; only the city put a little twist on it. Centered on the downtown area of the city, carnivals in Floripa often include wild parties with lots of singing, dancing, and drinking on the streets. Scattered everywhere are live bands that provide upbeat music to keep people’s energy high.

One typical event of the city’s carnival is the Pop Gay Festival. Taking place in the Tancredo Neves Square, here, drag queens and transsexuals can be seen donning on costumes and make a contest on who has the best look. Many families enjoy attending the festival and cheer for the competitors.

Another traditional festival in the city is the Bloco dos Sujo, which showcase straight men this time and dress up as women; and while drinking and dancing, they parade to the town in a huge group. Families of these men walk with them along the side to join and support them in the fun.

Lastly, since there are a number of Samba groups in the city, a yearly Samba competition held in the Sambadrome is also considered a major part of the Carnival.

The festivities in Florianopolis are just one part of the city’s culture. Visiting Floripa, tourists will learn and experience more from it.