Somehow, I have an intense connection to the Rock in Rio, I remember very well the first one, still under construction, with a real mud pit and poorly equipped bathrooms. It was 1985 and the event caused a major political struggle between Governor Brizola and the organizers. I remember that January with AC/DC, George Benson, James Taylor, Elba Ramalho, Queen, Lulu Santos, among many others. I have already participated in 6 editions and in 2024 I was kindly invited to the VIP sector.
Friday promised, Cindi Lauper, Karol G (whom I didn’t know), Ivete Sangalo and Katy Perry performed on the world stage. I arrived around 5pm and check-in was quick and friendly. All tickets are digital. I went to the VIP area, where I received a bracelet, in a welcome area. Entry and exit is done with a bracelet and with biometrics.
The VIP area has several sofas, in a refrigerated environment with quality food islands for a very large audience, bars serving whiskey, gin and vodka based drinks. There was no sparkling wine or wine. Tickets cost an average of R$3,000.00 (three thousand reais) and there is an outdoor area that provides access to the stages. The one that gives access to the world stage allows a privileged view of any country, wherever you are.
There were some waiters with canapés from the beginning, but this service was discontinued soon after the first show. There is a lower floor with brands offering products and gastronomic experiences. There are also bathrooms, very clean for a large audience, as well as lockers where you can charge mobile phones. The support staff are well trained and really smile with their eyes all the time. You cannot go out with drinks, food or glasses. I met many friends and ex-friends. The behavior I witnessed from the guests was extremely polite, although there were different segments gathered, who managed to have fun, dance and chat safely.
The largest music festival in South America displays a unique creativity, with each edition, that allows it to survive and improves its management model. The interior of the Olympic Park is reasonably signposted and staff are able to direct the public.
Public transport is of high quality and there are special buses. On the way out, I noticed some drivers offering services, at exorbitant prices, such as a ride from Rock to Rio to Taquara for R$ 150.00 As I live in the region, I went home and felt a sense of security, both police and the army, as well as the municipal guard, who gave us peace.
The event is a success story and demonstrates the commitment of the organizers to tourism, hospitality and gastronomy in the city. The hotel’s voice of almost 85% reminds us of a collaboration between the Medina family and Cidade Maravilhosa.
There is one challenge that needs to be better addressed: public and app-based transportation for residents, especially in the many Abelardo Bueno condominiums, who are deprived of BRT, buses and unable to get home with apps or taxis for a solution because the event is good for the city only if it is also good for the population.
I am looking forward and believe in new forms of commercialization for the next Rock in Rio 2026.
