Vendors at the Ipanema Hippie Fair sell everything from artworks and ceramics to handmade jewelry and clothing. Visitors will also find a choice of food stalls, many of which sell typical Bahian food, such as acarajé, a croquette made from a mix of black-eyed peas, manioc paste, coconut, and prawns. Even if you are not planning to shop or eat, it’s an excellent place for people-watching before heading to the beach.
Several Rio operators offer tours to the Ipanema Hippie Fair, which include round-trip transportation. You can also book a guided tour to several Rio craft fairs in one day, a great way to learn about local crafts.
Bargaining over prices is expected in the market.
Most vendors accept credit cards, but it’s still a good idea to carry cash.
Be sure to keep your valuables concealed while walking around the market.
The Ipanema Hippie Fair is located in the heart of the Ipanema neighborhood, one block from the beach. The closest subway is Metro General Osório, on Line 1 of the Rio de Janeiro Metro. Take the Praça General Osório exit, and you’ll see the market right in front.
The market takes place every Sunday. It starts around 10am and goes on until the early evening. The vendors can be a little slow to set up, so visit in the afternoon for the most variety—the shaded market is an excellent spot to take a break from the sunny beach.
If you miss the Ipanema Hippie Fair, you’ll find a good alternative in Copacabana. The Copacabana Night Market opens every evening, except Sundays, on Av. Atlântica between the streets of Rua Bolivar and Rua Sa Ferreira. Though smaller than Ipanema’s market, you’ll find a variety of souvenirs on sale, including Brazilian soccer shirts, hammocks, and capoeira pants.
