São João da Barra is gearing up to celebrate National Tourism Day on May 8, 2025, with a series of engaging activities organized by the Municipal Department of Tourism and Leisure. This vibrant event aims to highlight the significance of tourism as a catalyst for local development, supported by the Municipal Department of Education, Hotel Sesc Grussaí, and Thoquino Beverage Industry.
The festivities will kick off with guided tours for students from the municipal school system to the Hotel Sesc Grussaí, scheduled for both morning and afternoon sessions. This initiative offers children a unique opportunity to explore the facilities of Sesc and visit replicas of iconic landmarks, including the Taj Mahal, Chinese Pagoda, and Japanese Tea House. Established in 1979 by Sesc Minas Gerais, the Hotel Sesc Grussaí has been under the management of Sesc Rio de Janeiro since 2022 and boasts 188 rooms, making it the largest hotel in São João da Barra.
In addition to the tours, a technical visit to the Thoquino factory will take place, allowing members of the tourism trade, press, and local institutions to gain firsthand insight into the production process of their renowned beverages. This factory visit is expected to deepen connections between local businesses and the tourism sector.
Another highlight of the program is an exhibition and workshop focused on roses, taking place at Estufa Folhinha on Main Street in Folha Larga from 1 PM to 4 PM. This initiative aims to celebrate local culture and provide visitors with a glimpse into rural tourism in the municipality. Interested participants can register by calling (22) 99715-1563.
The Department of Tourism will also host a city tour around the historic center at 3:30 PM, departing from Loja do Milagre. This tour will take participants past significant historical sites, including the Cais do Imperador, the former wharf, the Carlos Martins Cultural Palace, the São João Batista Church, the João Oscar Cultural Center, and the Narcisa Amália Cultural Center. The tour will conclude in front of the "I Love SJB" tourist sign, a popular photo spot.
Additionally, the São João da Barra Handicraft project will feature artisan Marlene Borges, who will showcase and sell her painted pieces in Praça São João Batista. The day's events will culminate with a performance by the Grupo de Chorinho Nova Geração at Cais do Imperador, starting at 5:30 PM.
Flávio Raposo, the municipal tourism secretary, emphasized the importance of this event for the city. "Our goal is to strengthen local tourism by showcasing to residents that São João da Barra is a destination rich in history and culture. Celebrating National Tourism Day reinforces our commitment to the sustainable development of the sector, encouraging community and visitor engagement," he stated.
Meanwhile, in Minas Gerais, National Tourism Day is also being celebrated with a focus on adventure tourism. On May 8, 2025, at 6 PM, the program "Brasil das Gerais" will explore the exciting natural attractions that invite visitors from around the globe to discover the state. This segment of tourism is on the rise, contributing significantly to local economies and strengthening regional identities and cultures.
Journalist Patrícia Pinho will host a discussion featuring writer Mariana Grebler, who authored the book "Nó de Cravo," inspired by the world of sport climbing in Serra do Cipó. The panel will also include motorcyclist Mauro Assumpção, who has traveled through over 550 cities in Minas Gerais, and Emanuelle Oliveira, the director of Tourist Products at Secult-MG. This event promises to shed light on the adventure tourism segment, which is increasingly popular among travelers seeking thrilling experiences.
In São Paulo, the state is celebrating National Tourism Day by acknowledging its prominent role in the tourism sector. In 2024, São Paulo welcomed 49 million tourists and is projected to generate over R$ 340 billion in 2025, solidifying its position as the main entry point into Brazil.
Roberto de Lucena, the state’s tourism secretary, highlighted the remarkable growth of tourism in Brazil, stating, "The Brazilian tourism sector is experiencing a period of notable growth, with figures that reflect the industry's strength and its significant contribution to the economy, income generation, and job creation. On this May 8, we celebrate National Tourism Day, and São Paulo has much to be proud of."
In 2024, 2,274,932 tourists entered São Paulo, according to the Ministry of Tourism, showcasing the importance of the state's airport and transportation infrastructure for national tourism flow. Furthermore, São Paulo has risen to become one of the top ten most sought-after destinations for foreign travelers in Brazil, thanks to its diverse offerings.
The capital city, São Paulo, is known for its rich cultural, gastronomic, and business appeal, with Avenida Paulista serving as a key tourist attraction, featuring museums, cultural centers, shops, and a vibrant urban atmosphere.
According to projections, São Paulo is expected to welcome 51 million tourists in 2025, including 2.5 million international visitors. The tourism GDP of São Paulo currently represents 9.7% of the state's wealth and supports over 2 million jobs, both directly and indirectly.
With its extensive infrastructure, including three of the busiest airports in Brazil, and ongoing efforts to promote tourism through national and international events, São Paulo is positioning itself as a multifaceted destination that caters to all types of travelers.
As the celebrations unfold across different regions of Brazil, the emphasis on tourism's role in economic development and cultural exchange is clearer than ever. The events on May 8 are not just a celebration of tourism but also a testament to its potential to foster community engagement and showcase the unique offerings of each region.
