The arrival of Labor Day, celebrated on May 1, 2025, brings an opportunity for a prolonged rest for public servants of Campo Grande and Mato Grosso do Sul in 2025. Thanks to the optional point decree on Friday, May 2, 2025, employees of the state and municipal public administration will have four consecutive days off, starting on Thursday, May 1, 2025, and extending until Sunday, May 4, 2025.
This measure encompasses agencies and entities of the direct, autarchic, and foundational administration of the Executive Power, but essential services, such as health, public safety, and emergency care, will continue to operate normally through shifts or on-call duty. For many, the long holiday is the perfect chance to travel, relax, or organize their routines, especially after a year marked by intense professional commitments.
Labor Day, which honors workers and their historical achievements, is one of the most anticipated holidays on the Brazilian calendar. In 2025, the date falls on a Thursday, facilitating the creation of extended holidays when combined with optional points. In Campo Grande, the city government confirmed adherence to the optional point, ensuring that public servants have Friday off. At the state level, the government of Mato Grosso do Sul also formalized the measure, reinforcing the importance of providing a moment of pause for public sector workers.
As civil servants plan how to take advantage of the holiday, private businesses and other sectors will follow their own schedules. On May 1, most stores, banks, and non-essential services will remain closed, but operations are expected to return to normal starting May 2, especially in shopping malls and tourist establishments. For those planning to travel or go out, it is crucial to check the operating hours of services such as public transport, restaurants, and local attractions, which may vary during the period.
With the confirmation of the optional point, many public servants have already begun organizing their plans for the four-day break. Nearby tourist destinations, such as Bonito and Pantanal, are among the most sought-after options for those wanting to travel during the holiday. These regions, known for their natural beauty and outdoor activities, typically attract both residents of Campo Grande and visitors from other states. Additionally, the period coincides with mild temperatures in Mato Grosso do Sul, favoring ecological tours, hiking, and activities in rivers and waterfalls.
On the flip side, not everyone plans to leave home. Many public servants view the long holiday as an opportunity to rest, spend time with family, or resolve personal matters. The possibility of extending four days without professional commitments is seen as a relief, especially for those facing intense routines in public service. In Campo Grande, cultural events and outdoor fairs may also gain prominence, as the long holiday coincides with the beginning of the month, a time when the city typically promotes community activities.
The operation of commercial establishments during the holiday varies by day and sector. On May 1, most stores, banks, and public offices will be closed, following the tradition of the national holiday. However, supermarkets and pharmacies may operate on reduced hours, depending on the location and network. On Friday, May 2, commerce in Campo Grande and other cities in the state is expected to resume normal activities, with shopping malls and street shops operating during their usual hours. Restaurants, bars, and tourist spots are also likely to maintain regular operations starting from May 2, taking advantage of the flow of visitors and residents looking to enjoy the long holiday in the region.
For those planning to travel, bus stations and the International Airport of Campo Grande are expected to see an increase in passenger flow, especially on the eve of the holiday. It is recommended that public servants and other workers confirm the operating hours of essential services and commercial establishments in advance to avoid unforeseen circumstances during the period.
Long holidays like Labor Day have a significant impact on the economy of Mato Grosso do Sul, especially in sectors such as tourism, hospitality, and gastronomy. Cities like Bonito, Jardim, and Bodoquena, which offer natural attractions, usually register an increase in demand for accommodations and tours during periods like this. The expectation is that the May holiday will generate millions of reais in tourist activities, with hotels and inns operating at high occupancy rates.
For public servants, the long holiday presents an opportunity for consumption, whether through travel, shopping, or leisure, contributing to the circulation of resources in the local economy. The news of the long holiday has been met with enthusiasm by many civil servants, who have already begun planning how to make the most of the four days off. For some, this period is ideal for short trips, especially to destinations within the state. Bonito, for example, is a popular choice due to its proximity to Campo Grande and the variety of activities, such as floating in crystal-clear rivers and visiting caves.
Others prefer more distant destinations, like the Pantanal, where they can go on photographic safaris and observe local wildlife. For those opting to stay home, the long holiday is a chance to rest and recharge. Many public servants plan to use their free time to handle household tasks, such as organizing their homes or addressing personal matters. Local events, such as craft fairs and outdoor shows, are also attractive options for those wishing to enjoy the holiday without leaving the city.
The long holiday of Labor Day is not just an opportunity for leisure but also a crucial moment for the well-being of public servants. Work in the public sector often involves long hours and high responsibility, especially in areas like health, education, and security. Extended breaks help reduce stress, improve productivity, and promote the mental health of workers. In Mato Grosso do Sul, the state government and municipalities recognize the importance of providing these moments of pause, as evidenced by the decree of optional points on strategic dates.
As the long holiday approaches, public servants in Campo Grande and other cities in Mato Grosso do Sul are intensifying their preparations. For those planning to travel, organization includes everything from choosing a destination to checking documents and making reservations. For those staying in the city, the expectation is to enjoy free time to relax, participate in local events, or simply rest. Regardless of their plans, the Labor Day holiday promises to be a moment of relief and celebration for public servants.
The combination of a national holiday with an optional point creates ideal conditions for a welcome break, whether at home, on the road, or amidst nature. With the 2025 calendar offering other opportunities for rest, public servants have reasons to plan the year with optimism.
