Recife is the home of several artists, musicians and writers. It is also home to the frevo, a regional dance and music, typical in carnival, and Mangue Beat, a type of Brazilian rock with mixture of Maracatu, Ciranda, Rap and other musical styles. The Festival de São João, held annually in June, celebrates traditional culture and music that originated in the region. Abril Pro Rock, held every April, showcases contemporary rock music.

Celebrations, holidays and other events are numerous throughout the year. The New Year begins at the beach, Praia de Boa Viagem and in Old Recife. The carnival of Recife and Olinda (which has its historic town centre considered a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1982) begins many weeks ahead in December with innumerable balls and parades.

• Churches, historical monuments, public markets including 17th and 18th century buildings from Portuguese and Dutch colonizers;
• Francisco Brennand's atelier of ceramic art;
• Ricardo Brennand Institute: cultural institute with museum, art gallery and library;
• Recife Antigo (Old Recife) buildings;
• Boa Viagem beach is the urban area's most important beach, and one of the many beaches in the Pernambuco area;
• Casa da Cultura: souvenir shops in an historic old prison building;
• The Carnival at locations such as downtown and Recife Antigo;
• Olinda's historic town centre, considered a world heritage site by UNESCO;^[51]
• New and historic cinemas, theatres and art galleries.

When someday comes you'll need to get in.

When someday comes you'll need to be able to get around.