Brazil Day San Diego, one of Pacific Beach’s — and arguably the entire city’s — most anticipated events, comes around once a year. For those who miss it, that could mean major disappointment. There is, however, another option for residents and visitors to get their fill of all things Brazil, at least during July and August.
The Bahia Hotel offers a taste of South America every Thursday during the summer months with its Brazilian Carnaval.
Situated on the hotel’s private beach on Mission Bay (beware — you will get sand in your shoes and elsewhere), the evening spectacular features an authentic Brazilian buffet, including calamari salad, Brazilian rice, feijoada (pork and black bean stew) and moqueca de peixe (Brazilian fish stew). Dinner also includes a carving station with churrasco-style beef, and kids can get their fill at a children’s buffet. The food is worth coming for, but the real attraction is the entertainment. Dancers, musicians and martial artists all perform on stage for the duration of the evening, with samba, capoeira and exotic performances taking place one after another.
For those who arrive early, another surprise is in store. Exotic animals make an appearance prior to the evening’s entertainment. On a recent Thursday, caretakers from?Wild Wonders brought rescued animals — including a friendly armadillo — for an up-close-and-personal encounter with audience members.
The event takes place Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. For tickets or more information, visit www.bahiahotel.com/dining-entertainment/brazilian-carnaval/.
Though there is only one Brazilian Carnaval at the Bahia left this year — today, Aug. 29 — the event will return next summer. Check Bahia’s website for information on next year’s Carnaval.