Tag Archives: featured

Oktoberfest Blumenau 2025 – October 8 – 26

A Tradition Reimagined in Brazil

Oktoberfest originated in Munich in 1810. Blumenau adopted the festival in 1984 after severe floods, creating a celebration of resilience and heritage. Today, it’s the largest Oktoberfest outside Germany.

Oktoberfest 2025 Highlights

  • Dates: October 8 to 26, 2025
  • Location: Parque Vila Germânica
  • What to Expect:
    • Traditional German bands and music
    • Authentic Bavarian cuisine and Brazilian interpretations
    • Parade of Nations, folkloric performances, and competitions
    • Exclusive beers and themed nights
  • Tip: Wear traditional German attire (Dirndl, Lederhosen) for an immersive experience!

Visit the official site for tickets and updates.

Travel & Hotels in Blumenau

How to Get to Blumenau

  • Closest Airports: Navegantes (NVT), Joinville (JOI), FlorianĂłpolis (FLN)
  • Tips:
    • Book early for October and December events
    • Direct international flights available to SĂŁo Paulo (GRU) and Rio de Janeiro (GIG) with domestic connections

Where to Stay

During Oktoberfest in Blumenau, which typically takes place in October, you’ll want to secure your accommodation well in advance due to the high demand. Here are some great hotel options, keeping in mind proximity to Vila Germânica (the main festival grounds) and overall quality:

Hotels Near Vila Germânica (Ideal for Walking Distance):

  • Blu Terrace Hotel: Located very close to Vila Germânica, this hotel is highly rated for its location and often mentioned as a great option for Oktoberfest visitors. It offers comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and daily breakfast.
  • Hotel Vila Germânica: As the name suggests, this hotel is right by the Vila Germânica park. It receives excellent reviews for its location and service.
  • Pousada Encanto da Vila: 2.5 miles from Blumenau Bus Station and a 5-minute walk from Vila Germanica. This guest house features a garden. The guest house provides rooms with air conditioning, free private parking, and free Wifi. The guest house offers certain units with city views, and all units have a private bathroom. At the guest house, the units have a seating area..
  • Full list of Vila Germancia Apartment rentals: If you prefer an apartment-style stay, these options are very close to the Oktoberfest grounds and offers amenities like free parking and Wi-Fi, often with views of the festival area.

Other Highly-Rated Hotels in Blumenau (May Require Short Taxi/Bus Ride):

  • Hotel GlĂłria Blumenau: This well-established hotel receives exceptional reviews, often praised for its excellent service, comfortable rooms, and great breakfast. It’s located a bit further from Vila Germânica but still relatively central.
  • Villa do Vale Boutique Hotel: For a more luxurious experience, this boutique hotel offers stylish accommodations, an outdoor pool, a spa, and excellent dining options. It’s located slightly away from the immediate festival area.
  • Quality Hotel Blumenau: This hotel is known for its good amenities, including a restaurant, bar, outdoor pool, and free breakfast and parking. It’s a bit further from the center but still a popular choice.
  • Slaviero Blumenau: Located in the downtown area, this hotel offers quality services and comfortable apartments. It’s surrounded by cultural attractions and provides good access to transportation.
  • Hotel Himmelblau: Situated in the city center, this hotel is well-regarded and offers amenities like free Wi-Fi and a pool.
  • Hotel 10 Blumenau: This contemporary hotel offers well-decorated rooms, a complimentary breakfast buffet, and free Wi-Fi. It’s located a bit outside the central area.
  • ibis Budget Blumenau: A practical and modern budget-friendly option with good reviews, offering free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
  • Plaza Blumenau Hotel: Located in the city center, this welcoming hotel offers air-conditioned rooms and free internet access.

Easter 2026 in Blumenau & Osterfest in Pomerode

How Easter (PĂĄscoa) is Celebrated in Southern Brazil

Brazilian Easter blends Catholic traditions with family feasts and chocolate eggs. In Blumenau and neighboring cities, Easter is a season of creativity and cultural pride.

What to Expect in 2026

  • Decorated streets and egg sculptures
  • Workshops and chocolate-making demonstrations
  • Easter-themed photo spots, bunny parades, and family activities
  • Artisan markets with handmade goods

Osterfest in Pomerode

Held each March–April, Osterfest is the largest Easter festival in Latin America.

  • Giant decorated Easter egg (world record holder!)
  • German food and music
  • Egg painting and traditional games
  • Perfect day trip from Blumenau

[More at: https://www.pascoapomerode.com.br/]

Christmas & New Year’s (Natal e RĂŠveillon) in Blumenau

A Magical German-Inspired Christmas

Blumenau transforms into a winter wonderland every December despite the summer temperatures. The event takes place at Parque Vila Germânica with millions of lights, interactive installations, and festive markets.

What to See in 2025

  • Santa’s Village (Vila do Noel)
  • Enchanted forest light show
  • Thematic train ride and carousels
  • German-style Christmas markets with food and crafts
  • Parades and choir performances

More info here

New Year’s Eve 2026 in Blumenau

A Celebration of Light and Music

Blumenau’s New Year’s Eve celebration combines fireworks, music, and community spirit. The party centers on the city’s riverside promenade with live performances and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Expect This in 2026

  • Fireworks show over the ItajaĂ­-Açu River
  • Food trucks and drink stalls
  • Live music with Brazilian and regional artists

Ideal for travelers seeking a less crowded, more cultural New Year’s experience

Read more (Portuguese)

The History of German Migration to Southern Brazil

Introduction

In the mid-19th century, waves of German immigrants arrived in Brazil, seeking opportunities and fertile land. Many settled in the southern regions of Brazil, especially in the state of Santa Catarina, where the climate and geography reminded them of home.

Why Blumenau?

Founded in 1850 by Dr. Hermann Bruno Otto Blumenau, the city quickly grew into a cultural hub for German-speaking immigrants. Its picturesque timbered houses, traditional cuisine, and strong community values have helped preserve German heritage for over 170 years.

Check out this excellent 1-hour documentary about the history of German migration in Brazil.

Other Cities with German Heritage in Santa Catarina

  • Pomerode – Known as “The Most German City in Brazil,” it hosts the famous Osterfest and offers charming architecture and cuisine.
  • Joinville – The largest city in Santa Catarina, it blends German heritage with urban sophistication and hosts the world’s largest dance festival.
  • Brusque – A stronghold of German traditions with textile industry roots and a great base for shopping tourism.

City Guide to Blumenau

Cultural & Historical Sites

  • Museu da Cerveja (Beer Museum)
  • Museu da FamĂ­lia Colonial – Learn about the original settlers
  • Prefeitura Municipal – Impressive city hall with Germanic design

Outdoor & Leisure

  • Parque Ramiro Ruediger – Perfect for biking and jogging
  • Vila Itoupava – Rural district preserving traditional German architecture

Shopping & Food

  • German bakeries (try the Apfelstrudel!)
  • Local markets for crafts and handmade textiles
  • Boutique breweries and steakhouses