Eduardo Zorzanello: “Festuris is the result of constant work throughout the year”

How are you experiencing these intense days during the fair?

First, I want to thank you always for your friendship, your support, and for being with us throughout the year. What we've experienced here is the result of continuous work. This edition of Festuris has been historic: we had 17,000 registered participants, a post-pandemic record, and a 15% increase compared to previous editions. It's the biggest one yet. We had the participation of 64 international destinations and an estimated economic impact of almost 80 million reais for the city of Gramado, which has only 44,000 inhabitants. It's truly impressive to see how the entire tourism industry comes together here: airlines, hotels, tour operators, travel agents, and professionals from all segments, from wedding and wellness tourism to gastronomy and sustainable tourism.

Portugal was the guest country this year. What does that choice represent for the event?

Portugal is an example for us, and we are very grateful for their participation. They brought their gastronomy and culture, and almost every region of the country was represented; only one was unable to attend. Their presence was a true celebration of folklore and the ties between our two countries. For next year, we are working to have the guest country return to the Americas, perhaps a destination in South America or the Caribbean. Argentina, Uruguay, and the Dominican Republic have already been guests, and now we want to return to a regional focus. As soon as we have confirmation, we will announce it.

Several destinations highlighted the fair's format, which allows for building quality relationships. How do they manage to maintain that standard year after year?

This doesn't happen overnight: it's 365 days of continuous work. This year's theme was "Reimagining Tomorrow," and for next year we're already thinking about "Real Relationships that Build Legacies." We believe that tourism is based on human connections, on genuine interaction between people. That's why every detail of the event is designed to facilitate meetings, business deals, and new partnerships. Now, in November, we're starting an evaluation and feedback period with exhibitors, visitors, press, and partners. This process allows us to improve every year, whether it's adjusting spaces, optimizing services, or strengthening communication. We've already started selling tickets for the next edition of Festuris, with the conviction that this event remains an essential meeting point for the entire industry.