Carnival 2026: see what opens and closes during the holiday in Rio
The upcoming Carnival holiday in Rio de Janeiro will lead to altered operating hours for various services, including banks, supermarkets, and healthcare units.
As Carnival approaches, Rio de Janeiro is preparing for festive activities that will affect service operations throughout the city. According to the Brazilian Federation of Banks (Febraban), banking agencies will be closed to the public on Monday, February 16, and Tuesday, February 17. Services are set to resume on Ash Wednesday (February 18), with banks opening at noon and continuing until their regular closing hours. This change is designed to provide at least three hours of in-person service for the public.
In addition to banking services, grocery stores and healthcare facilities will also adjust their hours to accommodate the influx of Carnival festivities. Special openings and closings will be observed, with most essential services maintaining their regular hours. Residents and visitors are encouraged to plan accordingly to ensure they have access to necessary services during the lively Carnival period.
The Carnival holiday is a significant event in Brazil, particularly in Rio de Janeiro, where local businesses and public services are profoundly influenced by the celebrations. Understanding the operational changes during this time can help facilitate a smoother experience for those participating in the festivities, allowing them to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere without worrying about service availability.