Written by Julia de Oliveria Goncalves, J-1 exchange student
Holidays in Brazil are much more than just days of. They represent the country's identity, its traditions, its culture, and the way Brazilian people relate to time, history, and
celebration. As an exchange student living in another country, I realize how meaningful these special days are and how they shape the rhythm of life in Brazil. The year already starts with a major holiday, New Year's, which in Brazil is called "Réveillon" and has very particular characteristics. While in many places people celebrate only at
private parties, in Brazil, the turn of the year is a collective event. Millions of people wear white as a symbol of peace and renewal and gather on the beaches to celebrate. In Rio de Janeiro, for example, the party at Copacabana Beach is one of the largest in the world, with a fireworks show over the sea. Additionally, many people follow traditions linked to Afro-
Brazilian religions, such as jumping over seven waves and making offerings to Iemanjá, the Queen of the Sea. It is a moment of hope, where everyone wishes to start the new year with good energy.
But if New Year's Eve is a beautiful and emotional celebration, nothing compares to Carnival. Carnival is, without a doubt, the most famous holiday in Brazil (the one I miss the
most, honestly) and the country's biggest popular festival. For several days, entire cities turn into a huge stage for celebration, with music, dancing, and an energy that is contagious. In Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, the samba school parades impress with their luxury and creativity, telling stories through costumes and themes. In Salvador, the party takes place to the sound of "trios elétricos," massive sound trucks that lead crowds through the streets. In Recife and Olinda, frevo and maracatu are part of the tradition, and the hills are filled with people dancing and holding the famous giant puppets. What’s most interesting about Brazilian Carnival is that it doesn't just happen in big capitals – in almost every city, there is some kind of street party or parade, and even those who don’t enjoy the festivities take advantage of the days of to travel or relax. After the euphoria of Carnival, Easter arrives, a very important religious holiday for Christians. Holy Week is a period of refection and celebration for many families. On Good Friday, for example, it is common for people to avoid eating red meat and participate in reenactments of the Passion of Christ, which take place in various cities across Brazil. On Easter Sunday, the most popular tradition is the exchange of chocolate eggs, especially among children. Many families take the opportunity to get together and have lunch, making the date a moment of unity.
Another very important holiday is Labor Day, celebrated on May 1st. Besides being a day of for workers, this date is also marked by events organized by labor unions and social movements, which hold demonstrations and speeches in defense of workers' rights. Some companies and organizations promote concerts and activities to celebrate the occasion,
and many people use the holiday to travel or simply relax. Independence Day, on September 7th, is a civic holiday that marks Brazil's separation from Portugal, which took place in 1822. In Brasília, the country's capital, a traditional military parade takes place, with the presence of the President and various authorities. In schools, children usually participate in educational events about Brazil’s history. However, despite its patriotic significance, for many Brazilians, this holiday is simply an opportunity to rest or
take a short trip.
Another very important holiday is Our Lady of Aparecida’s Day, on October 12th. Besides being the day of Brazil’s patron saint, it is also Children’s Day, which makes the date even more special. Many families take the opportunity to give gifts to their children, take them out for activities, and celebrate childhood. In the religious sphere, thousands of devotees
make pilgrimages to the National Sanctuary of Aparecida, in the state of São Paulo, one of the largest Catholic devotion centers in the world.
On November 2nd, Brazil celebrates All Souls' Day, a day of respect and remembrance for those who have passed away. Unlike other festive holidays, this day is marked by visits to cemeteries, where people bring flowers and light candles in honor of their loved ones. Many churches hold special masses, and the atmosphere is one of refection and
nostalgia.
Then, on November 15th, Brazil celebrates the Proclamation of the Republic, which happened in 1889. Just like September 7th, this is a civic holiday that is not always widely
celebrated by the general population. Some cities organize educational events and parades, but overall, most people see this date as an opportunity to rest or take short trips.
The last major holiday of the year is Christmas, celebrated on December 25th. Just like in many other countries, this date in Brazil is marked by family gatherings, gift exchanges, and a spirit of solidarity and love. Cities are illuminated with Christmas decorations, and many families set up nativity scenes and Christmas trees in their homes. Christmas Eve dinner is one of the most important moments, usually held on the night of the 24th, with traditional dishes such as roast turkey, rabanada (a type of French toast), and panettone. For children, the excitement revolves around Santa Claus and the gifts he will leave under the tree. Additionally, many churches hold special masses to celebrate the birth of Jesus.
Besides national holidays, each state and city in Brazil has its own local holidays, which may be based on patron saints, regional historical dates, or specific cultural events. This
means that Brazil has a large number of holidays throughout the year, something many Brazilians love, as there is always an opportunity to celebrate, rest, or travel.
What fascinates me most about Brazilian holidays is how they mix history, religion, and popular culture, creating moments of unity and joy. Even religious holidays are experienced
differently by each person, depending on their beliefs and customs. Moreover, Brazilians have an incredible ability to turn any break in the calendar into an opportunity to gather
friends and family, reinforcing emotional bonds and the tradition of celebrating life. As an exchange student, I realize how much these dates are part of the Brazilian people's identity and how they contribute to the country’s cultural richness.