Feliz Navidad para Todos!

The natives of Brazil put a great deal of emphasis on the nativity. They will create scenes called Presepio. This is a short form of the Hebrew word presepium meaning a bed of straw. This depicts the bed of baby Jesus. The origin of this tradition took place through the introduction of a Friar in the 17th century of the story of Jesus. From then in has maintained its place in the Christmas ceremonies of much of Brazil. In the northern, part of Brazil the festivities.

Center on the play called “The Sheppards”. There is a little bit of a different plot to this play in the Brazilian version. There are shepherdesses that take the place of the shepherds. There is a kidnap attempt of the baby Jesus by a gypsy.

The legend of the Brazilian version of Santa Clause is similar but goes by the title of Papai Noel, which translated means Father Noel. Instead of living at the North Pole Papai Noel lives in Greenland. Papai Noel is not able to wear the American rational heavy fur outfit. It is just way to hot in Brazil, so he has to change into silk clothing.

The Rooster plays an important part in the Christmas celebrations. The Rooster announces the coming of Christmas day. The Catholics that reside in Brazil attend midnight mass. On the actual day of Christmas, once again the Catholics will attend Church but later in the day. One of the highlights of the day is a trip to the beach. For Americans they can only dream of weather that would allow them to be outside without a coat on.

The Decorations are spectacular and consist of flowers from the garden, by the array of fireworks, and the huge Christmas trees of electric lights.

There is a tradition called amigo secreto. This means secret friend. It is a wonderful tradition. Starting in December there is an exchange of fake names, and the participants correspond. On Christmas, everyone reveals themselves and they have bought gifts to exchange with their secret friend.

New Years is just as every bit as exciting for the adults as Christmas is for the children. There are parties, festivities, and banquets that just never seem to end. It does not matter whether one is a resident of Brazil, or a vacationer. All enjoy the festive Christmas Holidays,and all it brings.

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