The 2025 Carnival is expected to generate an economic impact of over R$12 billion in Brazil, a 2.1% increase compared to the previous year, according to an estimate by the National Confederation of Commerce of Goods, Services and Tourism (CNC).The period consolidates itself as one of the main drivers of the creative economy and the service sector in the country.
Bars and restaurants lead the revenue for the period, with an expected collection of R$ 5.4 billion, followed by transportation services, which are expected to generate R$ 3.3 billion, and accommodation, with R$ 1.3 billion in revenue. Furthermore, the event is expected to create more than 32,600 temporary jobs, with a focus on the food sector, which will account for over 22,800 positions.
With the economy warming up during the festivities, small entrepreneurs find opportunities to grow, especially in the fashion, food, and tourism sectors. However, according to specialists, the key to maintaining revenue throughout the year lies in formalizing the businesses.
Professionalism and credibility in seasonal entrepreneurship
Even in businesses focused on a specific period, such as Carnival, professionalism is an essential factor to generate credibility and differentiation in the market. According to Rafael Caribé, CEO of Agilize, the way an entrepreneur manages their service, even if temporary, can determine success and the possibility of expansion into other opportunities.
“Even in a seasonal business, acting professionally makes all the difference. Those who treat customers seriously, offer a quality product or service and have an organized operation increase the chances of building customer loyalty and generating new opportunities, whether for other events or even for a permanent business in the future,” explains Caribé.
Formalization and sustainable growth
The CEO emphasizes that regularizing activities can be a differentiator for entrepreneurs who want to take advantage of Carnival as a starting point for continued growth.
“Carnival opens doors for those who want to undertake, but it is essential to think about the future of the business. Formalizing your business guarantees access to credit, issuing invoices and the possibility of expanding your activities beyond the festive period,” says Caribé.
Furthermore, this formalization brings the possibility of conducting larger business deals.
“It’s the chance to sign contracts that protect your assets as an individual, separate what’s yours and what’s the business’s, and still be entitled to social security benefits,” recalls the CEO.
The creative economy, which includes sectors such as fashion, audiovisual, music, crafts, and performing arts, has a significant role in this scenario. According to a survey by the National Confederation of Store Managers (CNDL) and the Credit Protection Service (SPC Brasil), each reveler should spend an average of R$ 805 on costumes, accessories, transportation, and food, boosting demand for local products and services.
With a record number of foreign tourists in Brazil and a positive outlook for the coming years, Carnival continues to be one of the most profitable events in the country, reinforcing the need for small business owners to seek ways to structure and expand their businesses beyond the festive season: “Being an entrepreneur goes beyond taking advantage of a good opportunity. Those who formalize their businesses can transform a seasonal business into a source of steady income, exploring new markets and maintaining growth throughout the year,” concludes Caribé.
