Home » America Travel News » Portugal Joins Chile, United States, Argentina, and More as Brazil Carnival 2026 Blazes a Trail with USD 1 Billion Economic Impact and Record-Breaking Tourism: What You Need to Know Published on
February 13, 2026Portugal joins Chile, the United States, Argentina, and other key nations as Brazil’s Carnival 2026 raises the bar for global tourism. With an estimated USD 1 billion economic impact, the festival is set to draw millions of visitors, surpassing previous tourism records. This surge is driven by the event’s immense popularity, with major cities like Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Salvador hosting massive, vibrant celebrations that offer an unparalleled tourism experience, further cementing Carnival’s position as a vital economic and cultural force.Carnival is not just a celebration; it’s a powerhouse driving Brazil’s economy and tourism. According to estimates from Brazil’s Ministry of Tourism and Embratur, over 65 million carnival-goers (foliões) are expected this year, a 22% increase from 2025. Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Salvador, and Belo Horizonte will welcome around 40 million participants, reinforcing Carnival’s central role in the country’s economic landscape.Rio de Janeiro Carnival: A Major Economic ContributorThe Rio de Janeiro Carnival remains the most iconic and globally recognized of all. This year, the city expects a remarkable R$ 5.7 billion (approximately USD 1 billion) infusion into its local economy, thanks to the 462 street blocos (street parties) and the traditional parades at the Sambadrome. As Brazil’s cultural heritage, the Rio carnival is legally protected, attracting over eight million tourists—mostly Brazilians, with a growing number of international visitors. The city’s hospitality sector is nearly at full capacity, with hotel occupancy rates reaching 98%.AdvertisementInternational Interest Soars for Rio’s CarnivalInterest in Rio’s Carnival is also on the rise internationally. Between February 13 and 18, flight bookings from abroad to Rio de Janeiro have increased by 9%, with top source markets including Chile (up 41%), the United States (+11%), and Argentina (+8%). Within Brazil, international flight searches to the country have surged by 21% compared to the previous year, demonstra …
