Christmas

Christmas celebrations vary across the world. While for some, the most important day occurs during December 25, for Brazilians it has a completely different meaning. On this day, they enjoy the calm after the merry celebrations of Christmas Eve and enjoy doing nothing.

All the attention during the Christmas season is focused on December 24. Families gather in the late evening and enjoy a festive feast. Then, as midnight approaches, it’s the turn of the gift unwrapping and midnight mass. Often they celebrate until the morning, which determines the course of the next day.

The feast of Christmas in the sign of rest

As elsewhere in the world, 25 December is a public holiday. Shops are usually closed and the streets are unusually empty, as this day is a symbol of rest. After the joyous celebrations, which usually end late in the morning, Brazilians enjoy peace and quiet or visit with their loved ones. Their motto is not to be active, but to be together. Spending time together without unnecessary hurry is of much more importance to them. They usually sit outside on the terrace or in the garden, enjoying the pleasant warm weather, talking or playing with the children.

Eating without ceremony

There is usually plenty of food left over from the sumptuous Christmas Eve feast, so Christmas Day is all about finishing off the leftovers. This usually includes turkey, rice, salads, various sweet desserts and tropical fruits. They don’t try to maintain any festive atmosphere. Brazilians wear their swimsuits and eat whatever they feel like.

Summer instead of snow

Christmas in Brazil is distinguished by its different weather, as it is summer at this time. The high temperatures invite you to spend time outdoors, on the beach, by the pool or in the garden at home. Christmas spent by the sea is quite normal here.

Music instead of carols

Brazil is defined by its love of music and dance. You won’t encounter the carols that are traditionally rooted in European and American Christmases. There are notes of samba, traditional Brazilian music and some modern foreign Christmas songs. Music, in short, is an important part of the local population.

The religious dimension

Since Brazilians are religious, December 25 has a deep spiritual meaning for them. However, faith is perceived informally and is a normal part of life here. Religious services are held on this day, although churches are not as crowded as for the midnight mass on 24 December.

Christmas as the beginning of the festive season

Although Christmas is considered a major holiday that soon ends, for Brazilians it is just the beginning. In fact, they see the Christmas holiday as a transition to other celebrations. New Year’s Eve is the biggest holiday that they look forward to as soon as they open their presents.

Peace, relaxation and enjoying time together with family. That’s a simple way to describe December 25th in Brazil. All of this accompanied by the pleasant sound of the sea, the warm sand on the beach and a relaxed atmosphere.