Belo Horizonte is gearing up for its vibrant Carnaval festivities as street parties, known locally as "blocos," take over the city today, March 3. This year's event features the lively Pena de Pavão de Krishna, among others, who will parade through various neighborhoods, bringing joy and celebration to residents and tourists alike.
Starting today, various groups will take to the streets to celebrate, with specific timings and locations detailed for residents eager to join the fun. For the first day of Carnaval, the following blocks are scheduled to perform:
Barro Preto - Baianas Ozadas | Time: 1:00 PM | Location: Avenida Afonso Pena, 540 – Centro
Centro - Pena de Pavão de Krishna | Time: 2:00 PM | Location: Avenida Afonso Pena, 540 – Centro
Santa Tereza - Alcova Libertina | Time: 1:00 PM | Location: Rua Mármore, 577 – Santa Tereza
This celebration is not just about the revelry; it's also momentous for local businesses as stores and shopping centers adjust their schedules to accommodate the festive environment. The impact of Carnaval on commerce varies significantly across regions, particularly noticeable in areas such as Pernambuco.
According to recent announcements, the Carnaval 2025 festivities will alter business operations across various sectors, from shops to banks and other services. Despite the excitement, many establishments will operate under specific schedules from Saturday, March 1, to Wednesday, March 5, which is the end of the Carnaval period. The Chamber of Retail Leaders of Recife (CDL) highlighted this when discussing business adjustments. "Carnaval is not officially classified as holiday, yet many businesses choose to close or operate on altered hours," stated the CDL.
The shopping centers, particularly the ones located within Recife, plan to adjust their hours to cater to the massive influx of visitors during this period. For example, Shopping Recife operating hours during Carnaval are set as follows:
- Saturday, March 1: 9 AM to 7 PM
- Sunday, March 2: 12 PM to 8 PM
- Monday, March 3: 12 PM to 8 PM
- Tuesday, March 4: 12 PM to 8 PM
- Wednesday, March 5: 12 PM to 10 PM
Similar hours are set for other shopping centers like RioMar and Plaza Shopping, whereas some smaller shops may remain closed entirely. Shopping Boa Vista, for example, will shut down completely from Saturday until Tuesday, only reopening on Wednesday at noon.
On the banking front, the banking agencies and lotteries will not provide service from March 1 to March 4 as per the regulations established by the Brazilian Federation of Banks (Febraban). “During Carnaval, banking services are halted to allow employees to participate in the celebrations fully,” remarked Febraban representatives. Banking services will resume their normal hours on March 5, albeit starting later, at noon.
Across Pernambuco, social welfare services such as those offered by the National Institute of Social Security (INSS) will also see changes during Carnaval. The agencies will be closed on Monday and Tuesday (March 3 and 4) as well as on the Data Magna holiday on Thursday, March 6. Services will resume on March 5 but will only be available for scheduled appointments starting at 2 PM.
Despite some closures, electronic services will remain operational, allowing individuals access to over 100 services through the Meu INSS platform, including appointment scheduling and benefit requests.
Security measures have also been ramped up amid the festivities. The Civil Police are deploying additional officers during this Carnaval season, focusing on high-traffic areas to deter crime and ensuring public safety. Increased patrols will occur throughout the day and night, particularly during the peak hours of the celebrations.
These proactive measures aim to mitigate issues related to both public safety and illegal activities, such as the sale of alcohol to minors. "Public safety remains our priority during the Carnaval festivities, and we will be monitoring crowded areas closely," stated the police spokesperson.
With vibrant celebrations planned and various operational adjustments set within the business sector, Carnaval 2025 promises to bring not only fun and festivities but also challenges for businesses as they navigate the celebrations. Business owners are hopeful for increased foot traffic as the city’s streets become alive with music, dance, and colorful parades. The culmination of joy and commerce during this festival highlights the cultural significance of Carnaval and the communal spirit it fosters.
Despite the hustle and bustle, community members are urged to remain vigilant, enjoy the festivities responsibly, and participate respectfully, honoring the age-old traditions of Carnaval. Local authorities are encouraging everyone to join the celebrations, keeping safety and enjoyment at the forefront of the Carnaval experience.
The good weather and vibrant atmosphere forecasted for this Carnaval period hint at another successful year filled with laughter, bonding, and community spirit.