Christmas in Brazil is interesting because Brazil is the largest country in South America and has a long history.
The country has been influenced by Christianity over the past century, and the continent is often cited as believing in Jesus quicker than it took the Europeans when Christianity was first introduced.
Due the Christianity's influence, Christmas has become a national holiday and quite the celebration in Brazil.
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The Traditions
Brazil has a long history with the country of Portugal. The famous explorer Pedro Álvares Cabral was the first to land in the country. This meant that the Portuguese had a large influence on Brazil since they ruled the country for many years.
Traditions that occur in Brazil come from Portugual with native traditions taking hold as time went on.
The tradition of Midnight Mass occurs, which is common in most Catholic countries. Midnight mass is widespread throughout the country and includes urban and rural areas.
After Midnight Mass, there is usually a large fireworks display to celebrate the coming of Jesus.
Papai Noell is also recognized. Papai Noell is the Brazilian version of Santa Claus. The children leave a sock by their window in hopes that Papai Noell will visit and exchange the sock for a present.
Secret Santa is another favorite tradition that takes place throughout Brazil.
Another tradition that has occurred for many years in Brazil is the 13th Salary. In the month of December, businesses double the amount of pay they give to their workers in order to boost the economy during the Christmas season. The only other countries that have a 13th salary are Indonesia and the Philippines.
Christmas Dinner
Christmas Eve is a time for family and friends and, of course, good food!
The travel blog hotandchilli.com gives this description of the foods served at Christmas in Brazil:
Brazilian Christmas menus consist of main dishes made of different meats, including turkey, ham, bacalhau, picanha, lamb, pork loin, pernil (pork shoulder), accompaniments (rice and farofa -cassava), salads (salpicão, potato mayonnaise, Caesar), vinaigrette, and various fresh and dried fruits. There are many Brazilian Christmas recipes to which nuts, hazelnuts, almonds, and nuts are added. A bowl of nuts and a panettone on the table is a must!
The culmination of the celebrations comes with the sweet treats! Depending on the family heritage, some typical family recipes will appear on the table, as well as Brazilian desserts like pudim de leite, brigadeirao, pudim de claras, local cakes, pies, and don’t forget our beloved rabanada, a kind of French toast with cinnamon.
As you can see, the description has some similarities to the United States but many differences.
After Christmas is over, Epiphany is celebrated in Brazil. Epiphany is when Christians remember the coming of the three wise men to see Jesus. While it is not celebrated much in the United States, it is recognized in many other countries.