Brazil anticipates 65 million revellers at this year’s Carnival, a 22 per cent rise compared to 2025. Travel Pulse Canada
Brazil is preparing for one of the biggest Carnival celebrations in its history, with record crowds expected to flood the streets across the country. Tourism officials estimate that 65 million people will take part in this year’s festivities — a 22 per cent increase compared to 2025.
The surge signals strong growth for Brazil’s tourism sector, as both local and international visitors gear up for the annual celebration known for its music, dancing, and colourful parades.
Massive Turnout Across Major Cities
More than 40 million people are expected to gather in Brazil’s four key Carnival hubs: Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Salvador, and Belo Horizonte.
Rio de Janeiro, widely seen as the heart of Carnival, will once again take centre stage. Organizers expect around eight million people to attend events in the city. The famous Sambadrome parades and 462 street blocos — neighbourhood gatherings filled with costumes, singing, and dancing — will drive the excitement.
Officials project that Carnival will bring about $1 billion into Rio’s local economy. Hotels in the city are already operating at 98 per cent capacity, showing how strong demand has become.
Rising International Travel
Air travel to Rio also shows clear growth. Between February 13 and 18, international ticket purchases rose nine per cent. Chile leads the increase in demand with a 41 per cent jump, followed by the United States at 11 per cent and Argentina at eight per cent.
Across Brazil, online searches for international flights climbed 21 per cent compared to last year, reflecting growing global interest in the celebration.
Strong Numbers Beyond Rio
While Rio attracts worldwide attention, other regions also expect impressive crowds.
In Bahia, international flight bookings and ticket sales have risen 43 per cent. The state hosts one of Brazil’s most vibrant Carnival traditions.
São Paulo anticipates more than 16 million attendees, along with 600 street blocos adding to the city’s lively atmosphere.
Belo Horizonte projects 6.2 million participants and estimates an economic boost of $190 million during the festivities.
In the northeastern state of Pernambuco, Recife and Olinda prepare for huge turnouts as well. Recife expects about 3.6 million visitors, while Olinda anticipates around four million. Unlike Rio’s samba focus, these cities celebrate with frevo and maracatu rhythms, drawing massive street crowds for open-air performances.
Promoting Carnival to the World
Tourism leaders have partnered with a global travel platform to promote Carnival internationally. The campaign aims to highlight not only the large-scale celebrations but also Brazil’s cultural depth, cuisine, and high-end travel experiences.
“We want to show that, beyond being a grand and technologically impressive celebration, Brazilian Carnival offers diverse experiences that include luxury, gastronomy, and deep cultural immersion,” said Marcelo Freixo, Embratur’s president. “It is a powerful tool to influence international travelers’ purchasing decisions for 2027.”
With record attendance expected and tourism demand rising, Brazil’s Carnival appears set to deliver one of its strongest seasons yet.
