Discover Christmas celebrations in Brazil

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Brazil is a diverse country full of attractions for tourists looking for adventure, nature and sun, among others. Another way to discover Brazil is through its Christmas traditions and destinations.

One of the unique ways Brazilians celebrate the holiday and exchange gifts is Secret Santa, in which each person buys a gift for another without their knowledge. When handing out the gifts, everyone tries to guess who will receive that gift based on a funny description of the person.

The dinner menu is influenced by many cultures, such as Italy, Portugal and Spain. It includes pork roast, vegetables, rice, ham, potato salad, panettone and cod dishes.

GRAMADO: CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

Gramado (RS) celebrates Brazil’s largest Christmas event, which includes several free attractions, such as the traditional Light Show, which takes place daily in Gramado’s downtown streets, where Christmas decorations lights are turned on.

Another famous attraction is the Christmas Village, where local exhibitors display Christmas-themed handicraft products and visitors can meet Santa Claus at his home.

CURITIBA (PR): PINE LIGHTS

There are countless events scheduled throughout the city.

From the Christmas Proclamation to the enchanted choir, exhibitions, concerts, shows and special markets. The entire city becomes involved in the many activities, which makes Curitiba a great tourist option to enjoy the end-of-year festivities.

Visitors can participate in unique attractions such as Christmas car tours, opera recitals, hot air balloon rides, concerts, exhibitions, thematic markets and gastronomy classes.

MONTE VERDE: CHRISTMAS IN THE MOUNTAINS

Christmas in Monte Verde, a rural area of Brazil straddling the Minas Gerais/São Paulo state lines, celebrates the date with Christmas decorations and free shows for visitors. More than 270,000 visitors are expected this season, which features some 30 shows, attractions and a store with themed souvenirs.

This year’s theme will tell the story of the city, highlighting the color green in decorations, which symbolizes hope and the town’s origin in the mountains.

Among the attractions is The Awakening of the Lights, where Verner, a train conductor, and his helpers travel through the town late on Saturday evening in search of the magic key that will light the Christmas Village.