For Arizonans, Brazil’s independence from Portugal may not be as well known as our own Fourth of July or even Mexican Independence Day (which, contrary to popular belief, is not Cinco de Mayo), but each September thousands gather for a celebration nearly rivaling Carnaval.
Brazilian Day Arizona boasts a crash course in all things Brazil, including demonstrations ranging from Capoeira and Jiu Jitsu to percussion tutorials, Afro Dancing, and an open-to-the-public Samba Queen Contest. Soul samba trio Boca do Rio from Brazil, reggae group Bloco Axe from Los Angeles, and SoChu House’s resident DJ Byron Fenix are just a few of the more than 40 performers slated to bring Brazilian beats to the masses.
The celebration is from 1 to 6 p.m. Saturday, September 7, at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 East Second Street. Tickets are $12 for adults, $5 for children. Call 480-499-8587 or visit www.braziliandayarizona.com.
Sat., Sept. 7, 1-6 p.m., 2013