The event was attended by travel agents, press and guests, who were able to experience the traditions and magic of São João Maranhão up close.
Yuri Arruda, secretary of culture for the state of Maranhão, expressed his happiness in bringing this great event to São Paulo, highlighting the importance of sharing the culture, music, dance and colors of Maranhão with the world. He emphasized the cultural diversity of the state, highlighting the economic and social relevance of cultural manifestations, which go far beyond the São João period.
"São Paulo is the largest city in Latin America, and I'm sure that showing a little of our culture here will attract more tourists to Maranhão, generating jobs and boosting our economy," said Arruda.
Socorro Araújo, secretary of tourism for the state of Maranhão, highlighted the importance of the event to promote tourism in the state, highlighting the diversity of popular festivals and attractions that Maranhão offers to visitors. She emphasized the fundamental role of travel agents and the press in publicizing and marketing the Maranhão destination.
"Our state is rich in festivals and natural beauty, such as Lençóis Maranhenses and Chapada das Mesas. It is essential that we work in partnership with tour operators and airlines to increase the flow of tourists and make Maranhão an increasingly accessible destination and attractive", declared Araújo.
Carlos Orleans Brandão Junior, governor of the state of Maranhão, highlighted the potential of tourism to boost the local economy and highlighted the importance of the event to promote the state as a tourist destination. He thanked travel agents for their support and reinforced the government's commitment to preserving and promoting Maranhão culture.
"Culture is ingrained in all of us in Maranhão. Furthermore, our unique and exclusive gastronomy is a powerful attraction for tourists. We will continue investing in tourism and promoting our state as an unmissable destination for lovers of culture, nature and good food", concluded Brandão.
Maranhão is looking to increase its international air route and is contracting for this with the support of the Ministry of Tourism and Embratur, explained the governor.
The event takes place throughout the month of June.
Report and photo: Mary de Aquino.