New Rules Threaten Fun on Rio de Janeiro’s Beaches.
News from the Hispanic World in One Click
Welcome! La Chapulina Verde is bilingual. Every article is available in English and Spanish. Enjoy reading in your preferred language. Keep up to date and follow us on our social networks! Instagram, Threads, Facebook, and YouTube.
In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, people love to hang out at the beach. They enjoy samba music, street food, drinks, and renting beach chairs. But new rules starting June 1 may change all of that. Mayor Eduardo Paes signed a law that limits what vendors and musicians can do on the beach unless they have permits.
Under this new law, food and drink sellers, musicians, and people renting chairs will need official approval to keep working. Loud music, live performances, and even fun beach hut names will be banned unless approved. Only numbers will be allowed on kiosks.
The mayor says the goal is to keep the beach clean, safe, and peaceful for locals and tourists. But not everyone agrees. Some people feel these new rules will hurt Rio’s beach culture. Local DJ Julio Trindade says music is part of Rio’s soul. Others, like kiosk manager Orla Rio, believe the rules will make the beaches less fun and free.
The new law is also a big problem for street vendors and musicians. Many do not have permits, and they say the city does not give out enough. A group tried to stop the law by filing a lawsuit, but a judge said they weren’t allowed to make the complaint. The group is now trying to appeal.
The city is talking to people who are upset and may change some parts of the rule. There is also a new bill being discussed that may change or replace the law.
Some people like the new rules. A woman named Maria Lucia Silva thinks the beach is too loud and dirty. But others, like a tourist from Wales named Rebecca Thompson, say the beach’s energy and music are what make it special.
For now, vendors and musicians are worried. Many say the rules will hurt their jobs and the beach’s happy, lively feeling.
