Easter in the province of Santa Fe once again demonstrated the strength of its tourism and cultural offering. With an average occupancy rate of 66% – peaking at 90% in Melincué and 68% in holiday cottages and resorts along the Paraná River in Carcarañá – the long weekend generated an economic impact of $20.228 billion and an average spend per visitor of $365.272.
Although weather conditions and the general context influenced travel patterns, the province managed to maintain a significant level of activity and consolidate its position as a leading destination in the region.
Santa Fe’s Minister for Productive Development, Gustavo Puccini, noted that “the economic activity, exceeding $20.2 billion, was spread across the entire territory. However, spending was moderate, which poses challenges for the future. From Rosario to Moisés Ville, each locality contributed its own unique character. Tourism is a key tool for building a more balanced province, where every region plays a leading role”.
For her part, the Secretary for Tourism, Marcela Aeberhard, highlighted: “More than 103,000 visitors took part in activities across the province. Religious tourism, popular festivals and heritage tours are expressions of identity that strengthen the social fabric. Holy Week demonstrated that tourism is also a policy that fosters community, creates jobs and improves quality of life.”
Activities and events across the province
Over 110 events took place across the province, offering a diverse and wide-ranging programme. A new edition of the Outlet Rosario attracted over 70,000 visitors in its first three days and established itself as one of the main attractions. The city also hosted the Turismo Nacional motor racing event at the municipal circuit, alongside an evening programme featuring musical performances.
In Rafaela, the traditional glider flights and the Pascua Aventura event offered recreational options for a variety of audiences. At Melincué Lagoon, the silverside fishing competition and kitesurfing activities boosted tourist occupancy to 90%.
Religious tourism
The province has developed a programme deeply rooted in local identity. In the city of Santa Fe, tours of the Jesuit Quarter, the Pope Francis trail and night-time visits to the municipal cemetery offered unique experiences.
Esperanza established itself as the epicentre of ecumenical religious tourism, bringing together traditions from different faiths, whilst San Javier and Arroyo Seco stood out with their living Stations of the Cross and bike rides around the Seven Churches. In the central and northern parts of the province, towns such as Sunchales, Ramona, Zenón Pereyra and Ataliva upheld the tradition with processions and Easter vigils.
Moisés Ville contributed its cultural value with the Museum of Jewish Colonisation, which added a unique perspective on faith and regional history.
The programme was rounded off with cultural and recreational activities that reinforced the identity of each region. Local tourism was boosted by fairs and outdoor activities in Helvecia, Villa Cañás, Coronda and Cacique Ariacaiquín, whilst the historical offering was showcased through museums and themed talks in various towns, alongside cycling and wellness experiences.
Rescheduled events
Some of the planned activities have been rescheduled for next weekend due to the weather conditions, including the Provincial Chocolate Festival in Barrancas and the Conde de Tessières Marathon in Cayastá, which will allow the tourist programme to be extended over the coming days.
