As for customer numbers, 58.5% of participating businesses said they received as many or more customers than during the 2025 festivities. Of these, 32.3% noted an increase, while 26.2% considered attendance to have been similar. In addition, 22.2% of businesses hired extra staff to reinforce their operations during the celebrations.
Although the results show a favorable trend for some businesses, the survey also highlights differing situations within the sector. Among the businesses that compared their revenue with 2025, 42.9% reported a decline in income.
In their overall assessment of the festivities for their individual businesses, 30.2% considered them good or excellent, 22.6% rated them as average, and 47.2% gave a negative assessment. According to the Association of Cafés and Bars, these figures reflect the diversity of experiences among participating businesses and the importance of analyzing how the festivities affect different areas and businesses across the city.
MEMBERS' PROPOSALS TO IMPROVE THE EL PILAR FESTIVITIES
In addition to activity data, the survey collected observations and proposals from hospitality professionals ahead of future editions. One of the main issues raised was the geographical distribution of activities. Suggestions included a greater presence of programming in the neighborhoods and the return of activities to central streets and squares, with references to areas such as paseo de la Independencia.
Businesses also proposed reviewing certain aspects of the calendar, the duration of the festivities and the schedules of some events, as well as promoting activities capable of attracting visitors during days with lower attendance.
Other contributions referred to the need to encourage the participation of businesses that operate year-round, simplify administrative procedures for setting up street bars and address difficulties related to construction work and mobility.
