Manaus Weekend Guide: Cinema, Indie Music & Carnival Blocks

Manaus is set to host a dynamic cultural agenda this weekend, blending cinematic premieres with the energetic rhythms of Carnival block parties and indie music festivals. The schedule, spanning from Friday, January 16, through Sunday, January 18, offers diverse entertainment options for residents and visitors alike.

Highlights include the release of highly anticipated films such as 'The Kiss of the Spider Woman' and 'Extermination: The Temple of Bones'. Simultaneously, the city's streets and venues will come alive with the Festival de Férias, family-friendly gatherings, and the nostalgic sounds of Sereias da Panair.

Two major films are debuting in Manaus theaters this week, offering distinct genres for moviegoers. 'The Kiss of the Spider Woman', directed by Bill Condon, is a dramatic adaptation starring Luna as Valentín, a political prisoner, and Tonatiuh as Molina, a window dresser. The film explores the unlikely bond formed between the two inmates as Molina recounts the plot of a Hollywood musical starring his favorite diva, Ingrid Luna (Jennifer Lopez).

For fans of the horror genre, 'Extermination: The Temple of Bones' arrives just six months after its predecessor, 'Extermination: The Evolution'. Directed by Nia DaCosta (known for 'The Legend of Candyman'), the film follows a young boy named Spike, played by Alfie Williams. He joins a group led by the enigmatic Jimmy Crystal (Jack O'Connell) only to discover that his new companions are not who they appear to be. The film also features Ralph Fiennes as the mysterious Dr. Ian Kelson.

The Festival de Férias 2026 kicks off on Friday, providing a free, educational program designed for children aged 6 to 14. The initiative spans ten cultural spaces in Manaus, including the Public Library of Amazonas and the Teatro Amazonas. Activities include guided visits, workshops, storytelling, and traditional games.

Sessions are scheduled for 14:00 and 15:00. Parents must register via the official website, with a second scheduling phase opening on January 19 for activities taking place on January 20 and 22.

On Sunday, the Sereias da Panair block takes to the streets. Originally created in 2020 as a friendly gathering, the group revives the joy and costumes of street Carnival and traditional marchinhas. The event features performances by Antônio Bahia, Pororoca Atômica, and DJ Sheila Benjamin on Rua Barroso starting at 16:00.

Saturday night offers contrasting musical experiences for different audiences. The High by The Indie event, hosted at Rolê na Laje, curates a mix of indie pop and indie rock classics and new releases, described as having a rhythm reminiscent of Lana Del Rey. The evening is commanded by DJ BS Rapha and begins at 22:00, with tickets available for purchase at the venue.

Simultaneously, the Banda do DJ Evandro Jr. 2026 edition begins its marathon session at the Amazon Arena. Starting at 16:00 and running until 06:00 the following morning, the event features a lineup of pagode artists including Ases do Pagode, Júnior Rodrigues, Uendel Pinheiro, and Mikael. Entry to this event is free.

For a daytime family option on Saturday, the Clubinho do Circula 2026 offers dynamic workshops and storytelling sessions. Located in the food court of the Shopping Grande Circular, the event runs from 16:00 to 19:00 with free admission.

Manaus presents a comprehensive cultural itinerary this weekend, catering to film enthusiasts, music lovers, and families. From the dramatic storytelling of 'The Kiss of the Spider Woman' to the street festivities of Sereias da Panair, the city offers ample opportunities for leisure and entertainment.

Attendees are advised to check specific registration requirements for the Festival de Férias and purchase tickets for paid events in advance where possible. The weekend schedule highlights the city's vibrant artistic scene, blending international cinema releases with local musical traditions.