The South American gem, Brazil, teems with a pulsating culture, a multi-ethnic populace, and a history glistening with colorful episodes. This land of samba and soccer boasts unique customs, which, although everyday norms to its people, can bewilder and captivate foreigners. As we explore 13 Brazilian traditions that leave the rest of the world perplexed, get ready to be enraptured by the vibrant cultural mosaic that sets Brazil apart.
The Festival of Bonfires
Every June, Brazil celebrates the Festa Junina (June Festival) with bonfires lit in honor of Saint John. This festival is a mix of Catholic and Pagan traditions. It features numerous other rituals like folk dancing, dressing up as saints, and eating traditional dishes like candida (sweet corn porridge) and quentão (spiced hot wine).
Although the festival happens in June, which is winter in Brazil, bonfires seem like an odd choice for celebrating a holiday associated with summer.
Carnival
Carnival is arguably Brazil’s most famous tradition. This extravagant street party takes place every year before Lent begins. The highlight of Carnival is the samba parade, where elaborately decorated floats and costumed dancers compete for the top spot.
What makes this tradition baffling is the sheer amount of preparation that goes into Carnival. From rehearsing dance moves to designing costumes, a year-long process culminates in just a few days of revelry.
Carrying Brides Across the Threshold
In Brazil, newlyweds are expected to partake in the custom of carrying the bride over the threshold. While this is a common tradition in many cultures, Brazil takes it one step further. Instead of just crossing the threshold, Brazilian grooms must carry their brides across it while also carrying a glass of water without spilling a drop. This tradition can be traced back to ancient Roman times when newlyweds were expected to show physical strength by taking their brides into their new homes.
The Tooth Fairy
In Brazil, the tooth fairy isn’t a fairy at all. Instead, it’s a little mouse, Fada do Dente (Tooth Fairy), who exchanges children’s teeth for money while they sleep. This tradition is rooted in Portuguese folklore and is considered a fun way to help children cope with the discomfort of losing their teeth.
The Day of the Dead
While most countries celebrate the Day of the Dead on November 1st, Brazil commemorates this holiday on November 2nd. However, unlike other countries where the day is associated with honoring deceased loved ones, Brazilians see it as a time to rejoice and celebrate life. The day is marked with street parties, music, and dancing rather than somber ceremonies.
Showering Newborns With Coins
A peculiar tradition in Brazil involves showering newborn babies with coins. This custom is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the child. It’s also thought that the sound of the coins hitting the ground will scare off any evil spirits that might be lurking around.
All-You-Can-Eat Barbecue
Churrasco, or Brazilian barbecue, is a popular tradition in Brazil. It involves grilling an assortment of meats on skewers over an open fire. What makes this tradition unusual is the concept of all-you-can-eat churrasco restaurants where diners pay a fixed price and are served an endless stream of meat until satisfied. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s a favorite among Brazilians.
Eating Fried Chicken on Christmas
Unlike in many countries where traditional Christmas dishes include turkey or ham, fried chicken is a must-have on Christmas Eve in Brazil. This tradition dates back to the 1960s when KFC launched its first store in Brazil. The fast-food chain marketed fried chicken as a “modern” Christmas food, and the tradition stuck.
Wearing White on New Year’s Eve
In Brazil, wearing white on New Year’s Eve is customary to bring good fortune for the upcoming year. It’s believed that wearing white will also help ward off any negative energy or bad luck. This tradition often accompanies lighting candles and setting off fireworks at midnight.
Passing a Baby Underneath the Table
One bizarre Brazilian tradition involves passing a baby underneath a table to bring good luck to the child. The process involves placing the baby on one side of the table, sliding them underneath, and having someone else pick them up on the other side. This custom dates back to the 17th century when it was believed that passing a child under the table would protect them from curses.
Jumping Seven Waves
Jumping seven waves at midnight on New Year’s Eve is a unique Brazilian custom. Deeply embedded in their culture, this ritual is seen as more than mere celebration. It’s a spiritual nod to Yemanjá, the African sea deity, symbolizing a cleanse of the past year’s energies and the welcoming of new possibilities.
Bringing Flowers to a Host
When invited to someone’s home in Brazil, it’s customary to bring flowers as a gift for the host. However, there are specific rules and superstitions surrounding this tradition. For example, white lilies are considered inappropriate as they are associated with funerals and red roses should only be given to romantic partners.
The Brazilian Way of Greeting
In Brazil, it’s customary to greet someone with a hug and a kiss on the cheek. This tradition is not limited to friends and family but also extends to business associates and acquaintances. It may seem odd for those accustomed to a more formal and reserved greeting, but it’s seen as a sign of warmth and hospitality in Brazil.
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