Itajaí's nightlife is local and low-key — nothing like Rio or São Paulo, but genuine and unpretentious. Brazilians here follow the "happy hour" ritual religiously: post-work drinks that stretch well into the evening at bars around the city centre. Live music — samba, choro, pagode — turns up at bars and restaurants on weekend evenings. Note that venues often add an "artistic cover" to your bill once a performance starts, so settle up and leave early if the music isn't to your taste. For free live music, Parque da Marejada is a good option.