The colorful Easter Parade marked the official opening of ChocoPáscoa Gramado last weekend. The city expects to welcome more than 700,000 visitors over the 30 days of programming, featuring more than 100 free attractions. In the chocolate sector, expectations are also optimistic. According to the Gramado Chocolate Makers Association (Achoco), production increased by 20% compared to the previous year, rising from 700 tons to 850 tons.

For Gramadotur president Rosa Helena Volk, events are the main driver of tourism in Gramado. “After closing the biggest Natal Luz of all time in January, we held Gramado in Concert and Vindima in Gramado, and now we are launching the third event of 2026. Our ChocoPáscoa Gramado features a renewed program. In addition to the traditional attractions, we have a series of new features, such as the 1st Artisan Chocolate Fair, which brings together local factories at Rua Coberta,” she says.

According to the State Secretary of Tourism, Ronaldo Santini, Gramado drives tourism across the entire state of Rio Grande do Sul. “We are not only celebrating the opening of the 11th ChocoPáscoa, but also other achievements. Rio Grande do Sul is the state that has grown the most in tourism, driven by the strength of Gramado. We owe a great deal to Gramado, which has been fundamental in the recovery of our tourism sector,” Santini emphasizes.

Gramado’s mayor, Nestor Tissot, highlights that the local economy revolves around tourism. “For the first time, there will be 30 days of Easter celebrations, with events entirely free to the public. Our city has chosen tourism as its main activity. We are certain that the thousands of tourists who will visit will find a safe, well-organized city with excellent options in gastronomy, hospitality, and parks. I hope everyone enjoys the very best that Gramado has to offer,” says Tissot.

The Easter Parade was the first attraction. With the city decorated, the character Pascoalino the Bunny and his group brought the event to life in the streets. A cast of 45 performers staged a flash mob in front of the Palácio dos Festivais. With the theme “The Sweet Journey of Flavor,” the parade tells the story of cocoa and will have 11 additional performances this season, on Saturdays and Sundays at 3 p.m.

ChocoPáscoa Gramado runs until April 12, with daily attractions. At Praça das Etnias, the Easter Village takes place from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., while Rua Coberta hosts the Artisan Chocolate Fair from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Also at Rua Coberta is “The World of Experience – Kids Space, Pairing Lounge and Tasting Area,” open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Text: Halder Ramos
Photo: Cleiton Thiele