Christmas in Brazil is not much different from what we experience in the northern hemisphere. Well, if you set aside the fact it is summer in Brazil during Christmas, then not much else is different. The malls are packed with people. Everything and everywhere you find Christmas lights and decorations. This next image, for example, is at the Iguatemi Shopping during Christmas.
Although there are some original Brazilian Christmas music, you will also hear Portuguese versions of American classics. In my hometown of Fortaleza, there is one specific tradition that brings everyone out to enjoy it. It is the Christmas singalong in the city’s main plaza, in the heart of the city.
The building in the featured image is a hotel downtown. For a week before Christmas, every night you can hear live Christmas music being sung there. In each of those windows, there are from 1-3 singers putting on an unforgettable evening. The show lasts for about 30-45 minutes, but it stays with you the entire Christmas season.
The red banner on the sides of the building in the opening image wishes everyone a “Feliz Natal” (Merry Christmas). Even though political correctness has made its presence in Brazil, during Christmas, it’s nearly inevitable that everyone says “Feliz Natal,” no matter what their religious background is. In the middle of the square, the old city clock tower is decorated and a Christmas tree is displayed. Generally, the tree is made with local material, such as linen.
The video below shows our surroundings to the tune of “Jingle Bells” — in Portuguese, of course. It’s called “Bate o Sino” (a pretty close translation of the original title). The arrangement gets a local traditional treatment using an accordion and regional drums.
That is the Christian tradition I grew up. Christianity is the predominant religion in Brazil with Roman Catholicism being the largest denomination.
I want to thank all of you reading this post for the support you have given me this year. I learned a lot from following your posts. I hope that whatever tradition you observe during this holiday season brings you and your loved ones much joy, peace, and understanding.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays (if Christmas is not your tradition).
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Anne Sandler
What a beautiful post Egidio! I loved that you shared your homeland’s tradition with us. The tree made from linen is beautiful.
Egidio Leitao
Thank you, Anne.
sandyjwhite
Merry Christmas, Egidio.
Egidio Leitao
Sandy, Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Tranature - quiet moments in nature
Feliz Natal Egidio and Happy Holidays to you and your family too 😊🎄
Egidio Leitao
Xenia, thank you. May you have the happiest of holidays!
Tranature - quiet moments in nature
Thank you Egidio! 😊
nesfelicio
Feliz Natal, Egidio! What a great musical way to celebrate in your hometown. Thank you for sharing the spirit of the holidays through your Brazilian eyes.
Egidio Leitao
Nes, thank you for compliment and feedback. Have a great holiday season!
margaret21
Even the most politically correct English person, whether Christian, Muslim, Jew, Hindu or of no faith whatever, has no difficulty in saying ‘Happy Christmas’. Chances are they have a Christmas tree at home. Lovely to see here that your celebrations are just the same as ours, yet utterly different too. With added sunhine, obviously!
Egidio Leitao
Margaret, you expressed the feelings I wish I had written. Thank you for your support and compliment.
margaret21
And thank you, Egidio. I’m always inspired and interested in your posts.
Tra Italia e Finlandia
Feliz Natal,Egidio! 🎅🤶🎁
Egidio Leitao
Obrigado! Para você também.
Tra Italia e Finlandia
Obrigada!
Lisa Pascaretti
Muchas gracias Egidio ! Joyeux Noël à vous aussi 🌲🎅
Egidio Leitao
Thank you!
Nicole Sara
So beautiful, I love the blue bells with the red bow decorating the balconies… and the music must sound wonderful! Merry Christmas, Egídio!
Egidio Leitao
Thanks, Nicole. Merry Christmas.
solaner
Feliz Natal, Egídio. Have a wonderful Christmas time 🎄🥂🍾
Egidio Leitao
Merry Christmas, André.
philosophy through photography
Feliz Natal! It’s wonderful to hear about Christmas in Brazil—where the holiday spirit shines bright even under the summer sun. From singalongs to festive lights, it sounds like a magical celebration full of warmth and joy. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a peaceful holiday season!
Egidio Leitao
Many thanks, Philo. Whether you celebrate Christmas or another tradition, I hope your holiday season will be filled with joy and happiness. Cheers!
philosophy through photography
Indeed.
You ae welcome, Egidio.
Agata 40thousandkm
Joyful Christmas! 🎄
Egidio Leitao
Thanks!
thesimlux
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!! 🌟
Egidio Leitao
Thank you. I hope you had a merry Christmas, too. Best for the upcoming New Year!