By Rodrigo Braz Vieira
The Carnival of 2024 has just finished after more than a week of festivities throughout the country, and with it came not only an explosion of colors, rhythms, and celebrations but also a significant economic impact throughout Brazil.
The largest popular party on the planet, the Brazilian Carnival received 228,870 thousand international tourists in 2024, 4.5% more than in previous celebrations. According to information gathered by Embratur’s Data Intelligence Management *, the estimate is that the festivity around the country injected, this year, US$ 143.5 million (R$ 909.2 million) into the Brazilian economy, considering direct and indirect impacts. The amount exceeds by 6% the figure recorded last year when foreign revelers spent US$ 134.9 million during the Carnival festivities.
As celebrants say goodbye to the festivities, it’s time to reflect on the extraordinary work behind the scenes that made this grand spectacle possible.
Behind the dazzling parades of Rio de Janeiro, there is a legion of dedicated workers, often forgotten, who play essential roles in bringing Carnival to life. These are the talented artisans who spend months building elaborate floats, skilled dressmakers who breathe life into the most stunning costumes, prop designers, visual artists, structure assemblers, embroiders, metal workers, embroiderers, carpenters, and countless other professionals who contribute to every detail of this spectacle.
Playing a pivotal role in orchestrating these parades is the carnival director of a samba school. One such individual is Yago Werneck, who holds the position at Imperio da Tijuca. Yago elucidates that his responsibilities encompass “overseeing and coordinating various aspects of the school’s parade during the preparation for the Carnival, managing financial matters and supplier relations, as well as orchestrating a team of 150 professionals involved in the preparation process”.
The creative economy flourishes during Carnival, providing employment opportunities and livelihoods for thousands of people across the country. From small craft workshops to large event production companies, Carnival generates an unprecedented demand for local talent and specialized services. Additionally, Carnival-related tourism brings a significant influx of revenue to hotels, restaurants, shops, and other businesses, boosting the local and regional economy.
As we bid farewell to the Carnival of 2024, it’s important to recognize the hard work and dedication of the workers who made it all possible. Their skills, creativity, and passion are the true engine behind this iconic event of Brazilian culture.
As we look to the future, it’s exciting to think that preparations for the Carnival of 2025 have already begun! In the coming months, new themes will be conceived, designs will be drafted, and rehearsals will be held, all in anticipation of another extraordinary celebration.
May the Carnival of 2025 be even grander and more inspiring, and may we continue to value and support the tireless workers who make this festival possible. As the Carnival of 2024 comes to an end, preparations for the next one are already underway, promising once again to bring joy, culture, and vitality to all of Brazil.
