One of the most spectacular festivals in the world, the Brazilian Carnival, starts in Rio de Janeiro on 28 February. This event is considered a trademark of the country: a parade of professional samba schools, fireworks, colourful costumes, and masks attract millions of tourists every year.

The festival is also held in other Brazilian cities. According to forecasts of the National Confederation of Trade in Goods, Services and Tourism (CNC), this year’s festival will bring the country’s economy more than 12 billion Brazilian reals (US$2 billion), which is 2.1 per cent more than last year. The
press service of the Brazilian Social Communication Secretariat reports.

“This growth is directly related to the increase in the number of foreign tourists, which is due to both favourable exchange rates and Brazil’s rich cultural heritage. If the forecast is confirmed, this will be the most profitable carnival since 2015,” the CNC noted.

The country’s tourism ministry estimates that the celebration will attract more than 53 million people in all states, an 8 per cent increase compared to the 2024 festival. Passenger traffic during the carnival days is expected to be around 6.64 million, exceeding last year’s figure by 9 per cent.

In addition, the festival will create 32.6 thousand temporary jobs in restaurants, hotels and transport companies in the country. 

The Sambodrome in Rio de Janeiro is considered one of the key venues for Carnival. In this regard, the state authorities have strengthened security measures for the festival period, involving 26 thousand police officers, fire and medical services, drones and video surveillance with facial recognition. The state will also operate a special application to search for lost children.

Earlier, the carnival was already held in the city of Niteroi. It gathered more than 60 thousand spectators, becoming a bright start for the carnival week in Rio de Janeiro, as reported by 
Toda Palavra, a partner of TV BRICS. It is noted that 30 local samba schools presented a colourful show, which resulted in the selection of the winner.

Photo: Riotur, Neltur /
Toda Palavra