If there’s one place in Brazil where Easter takes on an even more special meaning, it’s Gramado, in the Serra Gaúcha region. Starting March 12, 2026, the city transforms into a playful and enchanting setting to host ChocoPáscoa 2026, one of the biggest and sweetest events on the national calendar. Until April 12, locals and the more than 700,000 expected visitors will be able to dive into a universe of chocolate, magic, and fun for the whole family.
If you’re planning to experience this unforgettable event, get ready: the schedule is extensive, packed with free and paid attractions, and requires good planning to make the most of every moment. In this guide, written by a tourism expert in the region, you’ll find everything you need to know about the Easter schedule in Gramado for 2026, including updated March prices, accommodation tips, dining options, and the best itineraries for families.
The Sweet Magic of ChocoPáscoa: The Heart of the Celebration
ChocoPáscoa isn’t just an event; it’s Gramado’s affirmation as the National Capital of Artisanal Chocolate. In 2026, local production is expected to reach 840 tons of chocolate, a 20% increase from the previous year, boosting the city’s 28 factories and creating jobs for over 3,000 people. This is the backdrop for a celebration that blends tradition, innovation, and, of course, incredible flavor.
Extra tip: take advantage and plan a 4-day itinerary in Gramado.
This year’s theme, “From Origin to Art – The Journey of Cocoa in Gramado”, promises an immersive and unprecedented experience, telling the entire story of cocoa, from the bean to its transformation into the finest products. The whole city dresses up for Easter, with decorated streets, giant bunnies, and colorful eggs scattered across the main tourist spots, creating the perfect backdrop for photos and cherished memories.
Free Attractions: Fun for Every Budget
One of ChocoPáscoa’s biggest highlights is its generosity. The vast majority of attractions are free, allowing entire families to enjoy the celebration without worrying about the budget. Activities are centered around three main hubs: Praça das Etnias (Ethnicities Square), Rua Coberta (Covered Street), and Avenida Borges de Medeiros.
Easter Village and the House of Pascoalino the Bunny (Free)
Located at Praça das Etnias, the Easter Village is the official hotspot for kids. Open daily from 9 AM to 10 PM, the space is fully decorated and houses the House of Pascoalino the Bunny. On weekends and holidays, from 4 PM to 6:30 PM, children can visit Gramado’s most beloved bunny, take photos, and experience a magical moment. Additionally, the village offers a varied artistic program from Friday to Sunday, with shows, storytelling, and musical performances like the Choco Happy Hour, which livens up the evenings with great music.
The World of Chocolate at Rua Coberta (Free)
Rua Coberta, one of the city’s postcards, transforms into a large chocolate experience center. Divided into three “worlds,” the space is open to the public from Monday to Wednesday, 11 AM to 9 PM, and Thursday to Sunday, 11 AM to 10 PM:
- The World of Origin: An educational and interactive exhibit showcasing the journey of cocoa, from the plant to the bean.
- The World of Creation: The traditional Artisanal Chocolate Hall, where you can admire and purchase products from the best local brands, as well as see sculptures and pieces made with the ingredient.
- The World of Experience: A kids’ area for the little ones to have fun, plus a lounge for wine and sparkling wine pairing and tasting (available for purchase).
Easter Parade on the Avenue (Free)
One of the most anticipated moments for everyone. The Easter Parade, themed “The Sweet Journey of Flavor”, is a street spectacle featuring 44 artists, floats, characters, and lots of music to delight the audience [citation:4][citation:8]. The parades always take place at 3 PM on Avenida Borges de Medeiros, the city’s main avenue. Confirmed dates are: March 12, 14, 15, 21, 22, 27, 28, and 29; and April 4, 5, 11, and 12.
Religious Program: Gramado Aleluia (Free)
Easter is also a time for faith and reflection. The Gramado Aleluia program includes two traditional processions:
- Palm Sunday Procession: March 29, at 9 AM, departing from Praça das Etnias towards Igreja São Pedro.
- Procession of the Passos: April 3, at 8 PM, on Avenida Borges de Medeiros.
Additionally, from March 31 to April 2, the traditional Live Fish Fair takes place at Fornos da Várzea Grande, from 8 AM to 5 PM.
Paid Attractions: Exclusive Experiences at Easter 2026
For those seeking a more in-depth experience or wanting to participate in specific activities, ChocoPáscoa also offers paid options. It’s important to plan ahead, as some require early registration.
Senac Culinary Workshops (Paid – Prices Not Announced)
Held at Rua Coberta itself or at the Senac School, the culinary workshops are a hit. In 2026, there will be classes for adults, featuring dishes like “Salmão à Wellington,” and for children, with fun activities like decorating cupcakes and Easter eggs. Prices haven’t been officially released to the general public yet, but it’s recommended to keep an eye on the event’s official website (pascoaemgramado.net.br) for registration opening and pricing, which are usually affordable and include materials.
ChocoBeach Tennis Gramado (Paid – Registration)
One of the big new features of 2026 is the inclusion of sports under the ChocoEsportes banner. The 1st ChocoBeach Tennis Gramado will be a doubles tournament held at Arena Curta Beach Sports, from March 13 to 15. For those who want to participate as athletes, registration is paid and must be done through the official website. As a spectator, entry to watch the matches is free.
Bunny Run and Walk (Paid – Registration)
For the runners out there, the traditional Easter Bunny Run and Walk takes place on April 4th, starting at Rua Coberta [citation:4]. The event features a 5km and 10km run, a 3km walk, and the fun Kids’ Race. Registration is paid and can be done online. For 2026, the organizers haven’t released the pricing yet, but historically, fees range from R$ 70 to R$ 150 depending on the batch and category, and include a runner’s kit.
Easter-Themed Attractions (Paid)
Beyond the city’s official program, many of Gramado’s parks and attractions get into the Easter spirit with special decorations and activities. One of them is Garden Park Gramado, which offers an immersive nature experience with scenery that changes each season. For a visit in March 2026, the current prices are [citation:10]:
- Promotional ticket for RS residents: Between R$ 34.90 and R$ 79.00 (depending on category: adult, child, student, senior).
Another option is to book a tour package that already includes transportation and a guide. A local operator was offering the “Easter in Gramado & Canela” tour for R$ 139.00 per person (transportation and guide), with park entry fees (like Garden Park) paid separately [citation:10].
| Attraction | Location | Price (March/2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Easter Village | Praça das Etnias | Free |
| Artisan Chocolate Hall | Rua Coberta | Free |
| Easter Parade | Av. Borges de Medeiros | Free |
| Senac Workshops | Rua Coberta / Senac School | TBD (paid registration) |
| Easter Bunny Run | Rua Coberta | TBD (paid registration) |
| Garden Park Ticket | Garden Park Gramado | From R$ 34.90 (RS promo) [citation:10] |
| Tour Package (transportation) | Gramado and Canela | R$ 139.00 per person [citation:10] |
Gastronomy: Where Flavor Meets Easter
The gastronomic experience in Gramado during Easter goes far beyond chocolate. In an unprecedented partnership with Abrasel Hortênsias, ChocoPáscoa 2026 presents the ChocoRoteiro Gastronômico [citation:4][citation:8]. Around 35 member restaurants will prepare exclusive, themed recipes for the occasion, creating special dishes that range from appetizers to desserts, all with an Easter touch. It’s a unique opportunity to explore the region’s rich cuisine from a new perspective.
Plus, you can’t leave without visiting the famous chocolate factories. Places like Prawer, Lugano, Caracol, and Florybal prepare limited editions of Easter eggs and chocolate bars, many with exclusive fillings and flavors. Our tip is to set aside time to browse the shops, sample the treats, and, of course, bring an extra suitcase to take all those goodies home.
Accommodation: Where to Stay During ChocoPáscoa
With an expected 700,000 visitors, Gramado’s hotel network is gearing up for high occupancy. The good news is that, to encourage tourism, hotels associated with SindTur Serra Gaúcha are offering 10% to 20% discounts on nightly rates for the first three weeks of the event, from March 12th to 31st.
For a family seeking comfort and value, staying in the city center is an excellent option. Location is key to making the most of Easter, as most attractions, like the Easter Village and Rua Coberta, are in the central area and can be reached on foot, avoiding traffic and parking hassles.
The Stillo Gramado Centro, for example, has promotional rates for the period starting at R$ 245.00 for a couple, including breakfast. The Serrazul, also in the central area, offers an exclusive program for its guests, including themed decorations, kids’ activities with egg painting, and an Easter egg hunt on Easter Sunday.
Family-Friendly Attractions to Visit
Beyond the official ChocoPáscoa program, the region offers several tours that become even more special this time of year. Set aside a day to explore:
- Lago Negro: One of Gramado’s most romantic spots, with trees imported from the German Black Forest. During Easter, the decoration around the lake usually gets a special touch, perfect for a paddleboat ride.
- Mini Mundo: The charming miniatures are already a hit with the kids. Keep an eye out, as the park often adds Easter-themed elements to its displays.
- Snowland: How about a snow day in the middle of autumn? The indoor snow park is a must-see for families, no matter the time of year.
- Canela: The neighboring town also gets into the spirit with its own Easter program, the “Páscoa em Canela”, running from March 21st to April 19th, featuring the Easter Bunny’s Burrow at Praça João Corrêa and artistic performances near the imposing Catedral de Pedra [citation:10]. It’s well worth extending your trip.
Expert Tips to Make the Most of It
To wrap up, here are some golden tips from someone who knows Gramado like the back of their hand:
- Planning is everything: The schedule is packed. Decide which days you’ll go and which attractions are your top priority, especially the parades, which run on a fixed schedule.
- Arrive early: To snag a great spot for the Easter Parade, get to Avenida Borges de Medeiros at least 30 to 40 minutes ahead of time.
- Prep the kids: Bring snacks, water, and comfortable clothes. The town is full of hills, so proper walking shoes are a must.
- Book ahead: For dinners at popular restaurants, make reservations in advance. The same goes for lodging—secure it as early as possible to lock in the best rates and deals.
- Official website: Keep an eye on pascoaemgramado.net.br for last-minute updates and when registration opens for paid activities.
ChocoPáscoa 2026 in Gramado promises to be an unforgettable celebration, blending the tradition of artisanal chocolate with the magic and charm that only the Serra Gaúcha can offer. Whether you’re indulging in sweet treats, marveling at the parades, or creating cherished family memories, Gramado is, without a doubt, the best destination in Brazil to experience the true spirit of Easter.