By Beatriz Miranda, Contributing Reporter
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – This Thursday, September 7th, the Casa do Minho Portuguese center, in Cosme Velho, hosts the “Encanta Rio” cultural fair. From 1PM to 10PM, the sixth edition of the event gathers sixty different stalls and cultural attractions, including vegan food trucks and children’s clothing brands.
Hoping to attract 1,500 people in this edition, “Encanta Rio” aims to increase the visibility of rising local businesses and invigorate Rio’s cultural scene.
“We came up with this event when we realized that Cariocas love culinary markets. [The event] is a great free option for the audience, and promotes both beginner and veteran entrepreneurs”, says Giulia Andrade, founder of Encanta Rio.
Food options for all tastes can be found at the venue, including Pomare Congelados’ vegan coxinhas, Macho Gourmet’s homemade burgers, Retro Bakery’s homemade bread and Atelier Rafaella Art’s sweets.
“We have been testing new recipes. We want to offer new products, with less sugar and more fresh fruits. But of course the brigadeiros and the cupcakes are mandatory”, plays Rafaella Rodrigues, who has been participating in Encanta Rio with Atelier Rafaella Art since the first edition.
Beer lovers also have a great reason to attend: the artisanal label Therezinha Stout, from Teresópolis (in Rio’s mountain Range), will be releasing a new recipe. “It will be a black, full and striking beer”, says Gabriela Alonso, Therezinha Stout’s partner. Other beer labels, like Cervejaria 4 Estações, will also participate in the event.
Encanta Rio will also bring a variety of handicraft artists and slow fashion brands for men, women and children, like Hirô’s shirts, Leiden Store’s handmade bracelets, Abalone’s silver jewelry and Bendita Solla’s shoes. What’s more, there will be a leisure area exclusively for children.
“This holiday, we want people to have fun in a place that gathers music, culinary, arts and a nice chilled lounge. It is a great option to take friends or family”, puts Andrade.
What: Encanta Rio
When: this Thursday, September 7th – 1PM to 10PM
Where: Casa do Minho – Rua Cosme Velho, 60, Cosme Velho – Tel: (21) 97210-8709
Entrance: FREE