International Women’s Day in Brazil is a holiday dedicated to valorização da mulher, or “woman appreciation.” In this article, you’ll learn all about special traditions for Women’s Day in Brazil, some history behind the holiday, and relevant vocabulary!
Let’s get started.
1. What is International Women’s Day?
On Women’s Day, Brazil focuses on showing appreciation, respect, and love for women. This is an important holiday around the world, and the same is true in Brazil.
Looking at the International Women’s Day history, the first celebration was in the United States in 1909. The Socialist Party of America hosted an event for women in New York, and the idea quickly caught on in Europe, which had its first Women’s Day in 1911. Since then, International Women’s Day has grown in popularity throughout the world.
Each year, International Women’s Day is celebrated on oito de março, or “March 8.”
3. How to Celebrate International Women’s Day in Brazil
In Brazil, this date is remembered with flowers and small homages to the women. Many husbands, sons, and employers present the women in their lives with a buquê, or “bouquet,” of flowers or potted plants, accompanied by a brief note. The children prepare little offerings for their mothers at school. In some colleges, female students receive a small card with a message, and a small gift, like some chocolates or bomboms (“bonbons”), for example.
Many town councils, associations, and shops also prepare tributes to women, organizing special events for them! The most common tributes involve distributing roses and offering beauty treatments; sometimes free medical consultations are even offered. On this day, Brazil often organizes lectures on women’s rights and subjects connected to career development or healthcare.
Do you who the world’s most powerful women are, according to Forbes?
In 2019, the three women heading Forbes’ list of powerful women were Angela Merkel (Germany), Christine Lagarde (France), and Nancy Pelosi (United States).
5. Essential Vocab for International Women’s Day
Ready to review some of the Portuguese vocabulary words from this article? Here’s a list of the most important words and phrases for International Women’s Day!
We hope you enjoyed learning about International Women’s Day in Brazil with us! Do you celebrate this holiday in your country, or honor women another way? Let us know in the comments! We look forward to hearing what you have to say.
If you’re fascinated with Brazilian culture and can’t get enough, you can check out the following pages on PortuguesePod101.com:
Whatever your reasons for developing an interest in the culture or language of Brazil, know that PortuguesePod101.com is the best way to expand your knowledge and improve your skills. With tons of fun and immersive lessons for learners at every level, there’s something for everyone!
Each year, Brazilians take it upon themselves to celebrate and pay tribute to the patroness of Brazil, Our Lady of Aparecida. This is a major religious observance for Catholics, who often make a journey to the Basilica of Our Lady of Aparecida on this day.
In this article, you’ll learn about the Our Lady of Aparecida apparition, one of her most famous miracles, and the most common traditions associated with this holiday.
At PortuguesePod101.com, we hope to make every aspect of your language-learning journey both and informative!
1. What is Our Lady of Aparecida Day?
On Our Lady of Aparecida Day, Brazil pays tribute to its patron saint, who is sometimes also referred to as the Virgin of Aparecida or the Lady of the Immaculate Conception.
But why is she considered such an important figure, and when did people start celebrated this holiday?
Our Lady of Aparecida Story
The image of the Saint was discovered in the present-day Paraíba River. Three fishermen were trying to fish to prepare a very important dinner. After many vain tries, they finally did catch something in their net—the image of the saint, without her head.
And the next time they let down their net? The fisherman caught her missing head. This event is often called the Our Lady of Aparecida apparition, and also explains why her name means “Appeared.” From this point on, many miracles were attributed to the patroness of Brazil, starting with the abundance of fish the fisherman caught afterwards.
The Saint stayed in Guaratinguetá with one of the fishermen, but with the increase in the number of followers, they had to build a prayer hall, afterwards a chapel, a church, and finally a basilica.
In 1928, the town around the church became the Aparecida municipality, and in 1930, Pope Pius XI proclaimed Our Lady Aparecida as Queen of Brazil and its patron. In the year 1980, Pope John Paul II consecrated the Basilica of Our Lady Aparecida as the largest Marian sanctuary in the world.
2. When Does Brazil Celebrate Our Lady of Aparecida Day?
Each year, Brazilians celebrate Our Lady of Aparecida Day on October 12.
3. Traditions & Celebrations
During the day of Our Lady, more than 150,000 of the faithful will visit the Saint, thank her for blessings, and fulfill promises. Some of the faithful organize themselves into groups to go to the basilica of Our Lady of Aparecida, performing religious pilgrimages called romarias. There are groups that go by foot or by horse, and travel long distances to the city of Aparecida, where the basilica is located. And, naturally, the Catholic churches perform many masses to honor the patron saint of Brazil.
The majority of Brazilians are followers of Catholicism. In homage to Our Lady of Aparecida, Brazil women are often called Maria Aparecida or Aparecida, and their nicknames might be Cida or Cidinha.
4. Attacks on the Image
The image of Our Lady has suffered a few attacks, such as one in 1978, when a young man knocked the image over. The pieces were gathered up and the image was restored after about two months of work. Today, a bulletproof dome protects the image.
5. Useful Vocabulary for Our Lady of Aparecida Day
Here’s the essential vocabulary you need to know for Our Lady of Aparecida Day in Brazil!
Procissão — “Procession”
Peregrinação — “Pilgrimage”
Padroeira do Brasil — “Patroness of Brazil”
Doze de outubro — “October 12”
Consagração à Nossa Senhora Aparecida — “Consecration to Our Lady of Aparecida”
Cavalgada — “Cavalcade”
Caravana — “Caravan”
Basílica de Nossa Senhora Aparecida — “Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady Aparecida”
Missa — “Mass”
Orar — “Pray”
Dia de Nossa Senhora — “Our Lady of Aparecida Day”
Nossa Senhora Aparecida — “Our Lady of Aparecida”
Rainha do Brasil — “Queen of Brazil”
Dia da Mãe de Jesus — “Day of the Mother of Jesus”
How PortuguesePod101 Can Help You Learn Brazilian Culture
We hope you enjoyed learning about Our Lady of Aparecida Day with us, and that you learned something new. Is there a patron of your country, or a highly regarded figure it celebrates? Let us know in the comments!
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Fathers are extremely important people, benefiting both their own children and society as a whole when they choose to act in this honorable role. On Fathers Day, Brazilians seek to honor and show appreciation for the fathers or father-figures in their lives, as much of the world does once a year.
In this article, we’ll go over the basics of how Brazil celebrates Father’s Day, including the most popular gifts and traditions. At PortuguesePod101.com, we hope to make this learning journey worthwhile, and hope you take away something valuable!
Happy Fathers Day!
1. What is Father’s Day?
You’re likely familiar with the concept of Father’s Day, as it’s celebrated in just about every country. Father’s Day is a holiday for children and whole families to celebrate and honor fathers, usually through Father’s Day gifts.
This may be the only day of the year that many fathers are acknowledged and truly shown appreciation for their role in the family, and in society, making this holiday an important aspect of Brazilian culture. Even the best dads need a little motivation sometimes!
2. When is Fathers Day in Brazil?
The Fathers Day date in Brazil is the second Sunday in August each year.
The date was set by the well-known journalist Roberto Marinho, who wanted to boost his business and consequently his newspaper sales. They say the date was chosen by his advertising consultant, Sylvio Bhering, because August 14 was the feast day of St. Joachim, the patron saint of his family. Roberto Marinho’s plan worked, and the date has since proved very “profitable” (rentável) for stores.
For your convenience, we’ve put together a list of this holiday’s date for the next ten years.
2019: August 11
2020: August 9
2021: August 8
2022: August 14
2023: August 13
2024: August 11
2025: August 10
2026: August 9
2027: August 8
2028: August 13
3. Reading Practice: Fathers Day Celebrations in Brazil
Do you know how Brazilians celebrate Father’s Day, and what gifts are most common? Read the Portuguese text below to find out, and find the English translation directly below it.
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Nesse dia, a maioria dos filhos compra um presente para o seu pai, escrevem cartas ou cartões de agradecimento e planejam um dia diferente e especial. A maioria dos filhos procuram um presente do gosto do pai. Entre os presentes mais comuns estão roupas ou perfumes.
Nas escolas, as crianças normalmente preparam um presente na sexta-feira e levam para casa para presentear seus papais. Algumas escolas também organizam recitais e apresentações especialmente para os papais.
E, no domingo, prepara-se um almoço especial, e se aproveita o dia entre a família para passear ou fazer o que o pai quiser. Afinal, esse dia todos querem agradar o seu pai!
É muito comum no Brasil filhos com o sobrenome “Junior,” “Filho” e netos que se chamam “Neto,” para honrar o nome do seus progenitores, como João da Silva Filho ou Pedro Soares Oliveira Junior ou José da Costa Machado Neto.
—
On this day, most children buy a gift for their father, write letters or cards of thanks, and plan to spend the day in a unique and special way. Most children hunt for a present their father will like. Among the most common choices of gifts are clothes or men’s cologne.
In school, the kids usually prepare a gift on the preceding Friday and take it home to give to their dad. Some schools also put on special concerts and shows for the fathers.
Then, on Sunday, a special lunch is prepared, and the father can take advantage of the day with his family for an outing or whatever other activity he chooses. After all, on that day everyone wants to please dad.
It is very common in Brazil for sons to have “Junior” or “Son” (or grandsons) to have “Grandson” added to their names as a mark of respect for their father’s name. For example, João da Silva Filho with Filho meaning “the son,” or Pedro Soares Oliveira Junior or José da Costa Machado Neto with Neto meaning “the grandson.”
4. Three Generations
Do you know any sayings that mention the three generations—father, son, and grandson?
“Dad is rich, son is noble, grandson is poor.” This saying relates to the difficulty of maintaining inheritance, wealth, and success through many generations.
5. Vocabulary You Should Know for Father’s Day in Brazil
Here’s some vocabulary you need to know for Father’s Day in Brazil!
Domingo — “Sunday”
Pai — “Father”
Filho — “Son”
Filha — “Daughter”
Presente — “Present”
Jantar — “Dinner”
Amar — “Love”
Dia dos Pais — “Father’s Day”
Celebrar — “Celebrate”
Vale-presente — “Gift certificate”
Cartão de dia dos pais — “Father’s Day greeting card”
To hear the pronunciation of each Portuguese Father’s Day vocabulary word, check out our relevant vocabulary list!
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed learning about Father’s Day in Brazil with us! How do you celebrate Father’s Day? Let us know in the comments!
Whatever your reasons for being drawn to the Portuguese language, know that with enough hard work and determination, you can master the language! And PortuguesePod101 will be here with you to help.
Feliz dia dos pais! (This means “Happy Father’s Day!” in Brazilian Portuguese.)
Are you wondering, “When is Valentine’s Day in Brazil?”
National Boyfriend and Girlfriend Day is the equivalent of Valentine’s Day in Brazil, a day set aside for lovers. On Boyfriend and Girlfriend (Valentine’s) Day, Brazil also keeps in mind St. Anthony of Padua, who is known for his teachings on love and marriage.
Learning about National Girlfriend and Boyfriend Day will help you to see Brazil through a clearer lens, in terms of its culture and its take on a holiday you may already be familiar with in your own country. Any successful language-learner can tell you that this is an essential step in mastering your target language, Portuguese.
And at PortuguesePod101.com, we hope to make this—and all—lessons both fun and informative!
1. What is National Boyfriend and Girlfriend Day?
Also referred to as Lovers Day or Brazil’s Valentine’s Day, the most romantic and special date on the calendar for people with passion in their hearts is Boyfriends and Girlfriends Day. This day is set aside for lovers and sweethearts to express their love for each other through gifts and quality time, just like Valentines Day in other countries.
2. When is National Boyfriend and Girlfriend Day?
So, when is Valentine’s Day celebrated in Brazil? Each year, couples in Brazil celebrate Boyfriends and Girlfriends Day on June 12.
This is the eve of the Feast of St. Anthony. Saint Anthony of Padua is much revered in Brazil, and he is invoked to bless wedding ceremonies, because in his religious teachings, he always emphasized the importance of love and marriage. They call him the “Holy Matchmaker.”
3. Reading Practice: How is it Celebrated?
How is Boyfriends and Girlfriends Day celebrated in Brazil? Read the Brazilian Portuguese text below to find out, and find the English translation below it.
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A maioria dos casais trocam presentes, chocolates, flores e cartões nesse dia, para demonstrar o amor que sentem. Mas alguns casais de namorados fazem um plano mais elaborado- alguns vão ao seu restaurante preferido, outros preferem ir ao cinema, tem gente que prepara uma viagem romântica. Mas no final, o importante é passar esse dia ao lado de quem você ama.
Esse dia também é esperado por alguns solteiros e solteiras que estão à procura de alguém para casar, mas de uma forma um pouco diferente. Eles fazem simpatias com a imagem de Santo Antônio para encontrar um namorado ou conseguir a pessoa amada. As simpatias normalmente maltratam o santo, deixando-o de ponta-cabeça, ou separando-o do menino Jesus até o santo conseguir um marido para elas.
A teoria mais provável para o início do feriado no Brasil é a de que foi o publicitário João Dória quem bolou o feriado, influenciado pelo dia de São Valentim, para aquecer as vendas do mês de junho, um mês fraco para o comércio.
—
It is customary for couples to exchange gifts, chocolates, flowers, and cards on this day as an expression of their love. Some make elaborate plans for a special evening either at a favorite restaurant or perhaps the cinema, while others opt for a romantic getaway. But in the end, what matters is that you spend that day in the company of someone you love.
There are also some single men and women who eagerly await this day, because they are seeking marriage, but in rather a different form. They perform the simpatias (“sympathies”) ritual with the image of St. Anthony to help them to meet a boyfriend or find a loved one. The ritual usually involves abuse of the saintly image, leaving it upside down, or separating it from the holy child, Jesus, in order to win a spouse.
A very likely explanation of the origin of this holiday in Brazil is that the impresario John Doria came up with the idea, inspired by Valentine’s Day, to heat up sales in June, a slow trading month.
4. Nicknames for Sweethearts
How do Brazilian lovers affectionately refer to their loved ones?
Apart from “love”—the most commonly used, other pet names for a lover could be: amoreco (“beloved”), môre (“special”), fofo (“fluff”), fofinho (“cuddles”), minha vida (“my life”), meu bebê (“baby”), paixão (“passion”), coração (“heart”), xuxuzinho (“sweet pumpkin”), flor de maracujá (“passion flower”)… The list is endless. Many people like to create their own little pet names for their loved ones.
5. Useful Vocabulary for Boyfriends and Girlfriends Day
Here’s the most important vocabulary you should know for Boyfriends and Girlfriends Day in Brazil!
To hear each of these vocabulary words pronounced, check out our Boyfriends and Girlfriends Day vocabulary list. Here, each word is listed alongside an audio file of its pronunciation.
Conclusion
What do you think of National Boyfriend and Girlfriend Day in Brazil? Do you celebrate a similar holiday in your country? And, most important, which of the adorable Portuguese sweetheart nicknames are you most likely to start calling your xuxuzinho (“sweet pumpkin”)? 😉 Let us know in the comments!
To learn more about Brazilian culture and the Portuguese language, visit us at PortuguesePod101.com and begin your journey to language mastery! There’s something here for every learner, from insightful blog posts like this one to free Portuguese vocabulary lists to help you expand your word knowledge. You can also upgrade to a Premium Plus account to begin using our MyTeacher program, or set up a basic account to start chatting with fellow Portuguese learners on our forums!
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Joaquim Jose da Silva Xavier (Tiradentes) is considered a hero among Brazilians, and thus has a holiday commemorating the day that he was hanged a martyr. Tiradentes was a large supporter of and actor in the Minas Conspiracy, which ultimately sought to end the monarchy and win independence for Brazil.
Tiradentes Day is one of the most significant holidays in Brazil, seeing the high stakes that Tiradentes sought after for the country. As you read through this article, you’ll uncover layers of Brazil’s history and culture that are vital for your understanding!
1. Reading Practice: What is Tiradentes Day in Brazil?
Why is the holiday Tiradentes celebrated in Brazil? Read the Brazilian Portuguese text below to find out (you can find the English translation directly below it).
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Joaquim José da Silva Xavier, mais conhecido como Tiradentes, foi o líder da Inconfidência Mineira, que aconteceu em Minas Gerais. O grupo, formado pela elite mineira, pretendia conquistar a liberdade e implantar um governo republicano. Mas um dia antes do movimento ser realizado, um dos inconfidentes delatou o grupo em troca do perdão por suas dívidas com a coroa.
Tiradentes assumiu responsabilidade total pela Inconfidência, e foi sentenciado pelo crime de traição contra o rei.
Devido ao crime gravíssimo, Tiradentes foi condenado à pena capital – a morte. Em 21 de abril de 1792, ele foi enforcado em praça pública na cidade do Rio de Janeiro.
Após executado, seu corpo foi esquartejado, e sua cabeça foi exposta em Vila Rica, e as demais partes distribuídas pela estrada que ligava o Rio de Janeiro a Minas Gerais, para intimidar a população e evitar novas revoltas. Sua casa foi queimada, seus bens confiscados, e jogaram sal no terreno para que nada lá brotasse.
Tiradentes é considerado herói nacional e o dia de sua morte é feriado em todo o país. Apesar disso, sua importância vem sendo esquecida, e a maioria das pessoas somente descansa e viaja nesse dia. A polícia civil e militar, onde Tiradentes é o patrono, celebra esse dia com homenagens a Tiradentes.
—
Joaquim José da Silva Xavier, commonly known as Tiradentes, was the leader of the Minas Conspiracy, which took place in Minas Gerais. The aim of the group, formed by the elite of Minas Gerais, was to win independence for Brazil and establish a republican government. However, one day before the conspirators were to put their plans into action, one of their number informed on them in exchange for exoneration from his debts against the crown.
Tiradentes assumed full responsibility for the Minas Conspiracy, and was sentenced for treason against the monarchy.
Because of how serious his crime, Tiradentes was sentenced to death. On April 21, 1792, he was hanged in a public square in Rio de Janeiro.
His body was quartered after execution, and his head was exhibited in Vila Rica, with his other body parts scattered along the road between Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais, to intimidate the population and discourage any more revolts. His house was torched, his property confiscated, and salt thrown on the ground so that nothing would grow there.
Tiradentes went down in national history as a martyr and the day of his death is fêted as a public holiday countrywide. Furthermore, his importance has never been forgotten, and most people set that day aside for rest or travel.
The civil and military police, who adopted Tiradentes as their patron, celebrate the day with tributes to Tiradentes.
2. When is the Tiradentes holiday?
Each year in Brazil, Tiradentes Day is celebrated on April 21. This April 21 holiday in Brazil commemorates the hero Tiradentes on the day he was hanged.
3. How is Tiradentes Day Celebrated?
Another key event in the story of Tiradentes, the Minas Conspiracy martyr, is the renaming of a town in the state of Minas Gerais in his honor. For Tiradentes Day, Brazil celebrates Conspiracy Week annually with various commemorative events.
The flag adopted by the state of Minas Gerais was designed by members of the Minas Conspiracy. On it is the Latin phrase “Libertas ainda que Tardia” or “Freedom though Late.”
4. Additional Information: Pulling Teeth!
Can you guess what Tiradentes’ profession was by his nickname?
The nickname Tiradentes derives from one of his occupations—dentistry. He also worked as a herdsman, miner, trader, political activist, and was in the military. But despite his nickname, he did not like pulling teeth!
5. Must-know Vocab
Here’s some vocabulary you should know for Tiradentes Day in Brazil!
Tiradentes — “Tiradentes’ Day”
Tiradentes — “Tiradentes”
Inconfidência Mineira — “Minas Gerais Conspiracy”
Joaquim José da Silva Xavier — “Joaquim José da Silva Xavier”
Herói nacional — “National hero”
Vinte e um de abril — “April 21st”
Patrono da Polícia Militar — “Patron of the Military Police”
Mártir — “Martyr”
Enforcado — “Hanged”
Esquartejado — “Quartered”
República brasileira — “Brazilian Republic”
To hear each word pronounced, check out our Tiradentes’ Day vocabulary list. Here, you’ll find each word accompanied by an audio of its pronunciation.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed learning about Tiradentes Day with us! What do you think about the patron’s story? Let us know in the comments!
To learn even more about Brazilian culture and the Portuguese language, visit us at PortuguesePod101.com! We offer an array of insightful blog posts, free vocabulary lists, and an online community where you can discuss lessons with fellow Portuguese learners. You can also create a Premium Plus account to take advantage of our MyTeacher program, which allows you to learn Portuguese one-on-one with your own personal teacher!
Know that your seeds of hard work will soon grow skills and knowledge for you to reap in the near future. Before you know it, you’ll be speaking Portuguese like a native. And we’ll be here for you the whole time!
Learn all the Portuguese New Year wishes online, in your own time, on any device! Join PortuguesePod101 for a special Portuguese New Year celebration!
Can you relate to the year passing something like this: “January, February, March – December!”? Many people do! Quantum physics teaches us that time is relative, and few experiences illustrate this principle as perfectly as when we reach the end of a year. To most of us, it feels like the old one has passed in the blink of an eye, while the new year lies ahead like a very long journey! However, New Year is also a time to celebrate beginnings, and to say goodbye to what has passed. This is true in every culture, no matter when New Year is celebrated.
So, how do you say Happy New Year in Portuguese? Let a native teach you! At PortuguesePod101, you will learn how to correctly greet your friends over New Year, and wish them well with these Portuguese New Year wishes!
If you’re in Brazil on New Year’s Eve or Véspera de Ano Novo, you’ll be able to see the fireworks on the turn of the year on Copacabana beach. Apart from setting off fireworks, we have many other traditions for the New Year in Brazil. Everything from the meals to the color of the clothes you wear is extremely important on this day.
Now before we get into more detail, do you know the answer to this question?
What other name is also given for New Year’s Eve in Portuguese?
If you don’t already know, you’ll find out a bit later, so keep reading!
There’s one very important detail for the passing of the year. It’s choosing the color of the clothes you will wear in Brazil. Each color has a special meaning, and it shows what you want for next year. “Color” in Portuguese is cor.
The most popular color for New Year’s Day is “white” or branco, which means “peace” or in Portuguese, paz. Another widely used color also is gold or yellow. Brazilian people think yellow or amarelo will bring wealth and money to them. If you’re in Brazil on New Year’s Eve, look around and enjoy the colorful clothes people wear that have a special meaning and hope for special wishes.
Besides the color of clothing, there are superstitions about food as well. The food includes figs or figos, pomegranates or romãs, the lentils or lentilha, and grapes or uva. They are all symbols of prosperity. For example, some people eat seven pomegranate seeds at midnight and save their seeds or sementes in their wallet. It’s believed that this custom will bring them wealth and money. Traditionally, Brazilian people also eat twelve grapes or uvas at the turn of the year to bring good luck for the year ahead.
The new year occurs during the summer or verão in Brazil. It’s a great time to go to the beach with family or friends. Many devotees of the religion of Candomblé make offerings to the goddess of the seas, whose name is Yemanja. The most common types of offerings are flowers or flores, candles or velas, and perfumes or in Portuguese, perfumes.
There’s another habit that shows African influence—jumping seven waves. It’s believed that if you jump over seven waves or sete ondas, it will attract luck and success for years to come.
And here’s the fun fact.
December 31st is also the day of International Race of St. Sylvester or Corrida Internacional de São Silvestre in the city of São Paulo. It’s a race held on one of Brazil’s most famous streets, with a route that is fifteen kilometers long, and participants have the warmth of the Brazilian summer to face.
Now it’s time to answer our quiz question-
What other name is also given for New Year’s Eve?
New Year’s Eve in Brazil is also known as the réveillon in Brazil. This word comes from the French word meaning “awakening.”
Happy New Year!
Feliz Ano Novo!
2. Must-Know Portuguese Words & Phrases for the New Year!
1- Year
ano
This is pretty self-explanatory. Most countries follow a Gregorian calendar, which has approximately 365 days in a year, while in some cultures, other year designations are also honored. Therefore, New Year’s day in Brazil could fall on a different day than in your country. When do you celebrate New Year?
2- Midnight
meia-noite
The point in time when a day ends and a new one starts. Many New Year celebrants prefer to stay awake till midnight, and greet the new annum as it breaks with fanfare and fireworks!
3- New Year’s Day
Dia de Ano Novo
In most countries, the new year is celebrated for one whole day. On the Gregorian calendar, this falls on January 1st. On this day, different cultures engage in festive activities, like parties, parades, big meals with families and many more.
4- Party
festa
A party is most people’s favorite way to end the old year, and charge festively into the new one! We celebrate all we accomplished in the old year, and joyfully anticipate what lies ahead.
5- Dancing
dança
Usually, when the clock strikes midnight and the New Year officially begins, people break out in dance! It is a jolly way to express a celebratory mood with good expectations for the year ahead. Also, perhaps, that the old year with its problems has finally passed! Dance parties are also a popular way to spend New Year’s Eve in many places.
6- Champagne
champanhe
Originating in France, champagne is a bubbly, alcoholic drink that is often used to toast something or someone during celebrations.
7- Fireworks
fogo de artifício
These are explosives that cause spectacular effects when ignited. They are popular for announcing the start of the new year with loud noises and colorful displays! In some countries, fireworks are set off to scare away evil spirits. In others, the use of fireworks is forbidden in urban areas due to their harmful effect on pets. Most animals’ hearing is much more sensitive than humans’, so this noisy display can be very frightful and traumatising to them.
8- Countdown
contagem regressiva
This countdown refers to New Year celebrants counting the seconds, usually backward, till midnight, when New Year starts – a great group activity that doesn’t scare animals, and involves a lot of joyful shouting when the clock strikes midnight!
9- New Year’s Holiday
Feriado de Ano Novo
In many countries, New Year’s Day is a public holiday – to recuperate from the party the previous night, perhaps! Families also like to meet on this day to enjoy a meal and spend time together.
10- Confetti
confete
In most Western countries, confetti is traditionally associated with weddings, but often it is used as a party decoration. Some prefer to throw it in the air at the strike of midnight on New Year’s Eve.
11- New Year’s Eve
Véspera de Ano Novo
This is the evening before New Year breaks at midnight! Often, friends and family meet for a party or meal the evening before, sometimes engaging in year-end rituals. How are you planning to give your New Year greetings in 2018?
12- Toast
brinde
A toast is a type of group-salutation that involves raising your glass to drink with others in honor of something or someone. A toast to the new year is definitely in order!
13- Resolution
promessa
Those goals or intentions you hope to, but seldom keep in the new year! Many people consider the start of a new year to be the opportune time for making changes or plans. Resolutions are those intentions to change, or the plans. It’s best to keep your resolutions realistic so as not to disappoint yourself!
14- Parade
desfile
New Year celebrations are a huge deal in some countries! Parades are held in the streets, often to celebratory music, with colorful costumes and lots of dancing. Parades are like marches, only less formal and way more fun. At PortuguesePod101, you can engage in forums with natives who can tell you what Portuguese New Year celebrations are like!
3. Top 10 New Year’s Resolutions
So, you learned the Portuguese word for ‘resolution’. Fabulous! Resolutions are those goals and intentions that we hope to manifest in the year that lies ahead. The beginning of a new year serves as a good marker in time to formalise these. Some like to do it in writing, others only hold these resolutions in their hearts. Here are our Top 10 New Year’s resolutions at PortuguesePod101 – what are yours?
Learn these phrases and impress your Portuguese friends with your vocabulary.
1- Read more
Ler mais.
Reading is a fantastic skill that everyone can benefit from. You’re a business person? Apparently, successful business men and women read up to 60 books a year. This probably excludes fiction, so better scan your library or Amazon for the top business reads if you plan to follow in the footsteps of the successful! Otherwise, why not make it your resolution to read more Portuguese in the new year? You will be surprised by how much this will improve your Portuguese language skills!
2- Spend more time with family
Passar mais tempo com a família.
Former US President George Bush’s wife, Barbara Bush, was quoted as having said this: “At the end of your life, you will never regret not having passed one more test, not winning one more verdict, or not closing one more deal. You will regret time not spent with a husband, a friend, a child, a parent.” This is very true! Relationships are often what gives life meaning, so this is a worthy resolution for any year.
3- Lose weight
Emagrecer.
Hands up, how many of you made this new year’s resolution last year too…?! This is a notoriously difficult goal to keep, as it takes a lot of self discipline not to eat unhealthily. Good luck with this one, and avoid unhealthy fad diets!
4- Save money
Economizar.
Another common and difficult resolution! However, no one has ever been sorry when they saved towards reaching a goal. Make it your resolution to save money to upgrade your subscription to PortuguesePod101’s Premium PLUS option in the new year – it will be money well spent!
5- Quit smoking
Parar de fumar.
This is a resolution that you should definitely keep, or your body could punish you severely later! Smoking is a harmful habit with many hazardous effects on your health. Do everything in your power to make this resolution come true in the new year, as your health is your most precious asset.
6- Learn something new
Aprender algo novo.
Science has proven that learning new skills can help keep brain diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer’s at bay! It can even slow down the progression of the disease. So, keep your brain healthy by learning to speak a new language, studying towards a qualification, learning how to sew, or how to play chess – no matter how old you are, the possibilities are infinite!
7- Drink less
Beber menos.
This is another health resolution that is good to heed any time of the year. Excessive drinking is associated with many diseases, and its effect can be very detrimental to good relationships too. Alcohol is a poison and harmful for the body in large quantities!
8- Exercise regularly
Me exercitar regularmente.
This resolution goes hand-in-hand with ‘Lose weight’! An inactive body is an unhealthy and often overweight one, so give this resolution priority in the new year.
9- Eat healthy
Ter uma alimentação saudável.
If you stick with this resolution, you will lose weight and feel better in general. It is a very worthy goal to have!
10- Study Portuguese with PortuguesePod101
estudando português com PortuguesePod101.com
Of course! You can only benefit from learning Portuguese, especially with us! Learning how to speak Portuguese can keep your brain healthy, it can widen your circle of friends, and improve your chances to land a dream job anywhere in the world. PortuguesePod101 makes it easy and enjoyable for you to stick to this resolution.
4. Inspirational New Year Quotes
Everyone knows that it is sometimes very hard to stick to resolutions, and not only over New Year. The reasons for this vary from person to person, but all of us need inspiration every now and then! A good way to remain motivated is to keep inspirational quotes near as reminders that it’s up to us to reach our goals.
Make decorative notes of these in Portuguese, and keep them close! Perhaps you could stick them above your bathroom mirror, or on your study’s wall. This way you not only get to read Portuguese incidentally, but also remain inspired to reach your goals! Imagine feeling like giving up on a goal, but reading this quote when you go to the bathroom: “It does not matter how slowly you go, as long as you do not stop.” What a positive affirmation!
5. Inspirational Language Learning Quotes
Still undecided whether you should enroll with PortuguesePod101 to learn a new language? There’s no time like the present to decide! Let the following Language Learning Quotes inspire you with their wisdom.
As legendary President Nelson Mandela once said: “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart.” So, learning how to say Happy New Year in Portuguese could well be a way into someone special’s heart for you! Let this year be the one where you to learn how to say Happy New Year, and much more, in Portuguese – it could open many and unexpected doors for you.
6. How To Say Happy New Year in 31 Languages
Here’s a lovely bonus for you! Why stop with Portuguese – learn how to say Happy New Year in 31 other languages too! Watch this video and learn how to pronounce these New Year’s wishes like a native in under two minutes.
7. Why Enrolling with PortuguesePod101 Would Be the Perfect New Year’s Gift to Yourself!
If you are unsure how to celebrate the New Year, why not give yourself a huge gift, and enroll to learn Portuguese! With more than 12 years of experience behind us, we know that PortuguesePod101 would be the perfect fit for you. There are so many reasons for this!
Custom-tailored Learning Paths: Start learning Portuguese at the level that you are. We have numerous Learning Pathways, and we tailor them just for you based on your goals and interests! What a boon!
Marked Progress and Fresh Learning Material Every Week: We make new lessons available every week, with an option to track your progress. Topics are culturally appropriate and useful, such as “Learning how to deliver negative answers politely to a business partner.” Our aim is to equip you with Portuguese that makes sense!
Multiple Learning Tools: Learn in fun, easy ways with resources such 1,000+ video and audio lessons, flashcards, detailed PDF downloads, and mobile apps suitable for multiple devices!
Fast Track Learning Option: If you’re serious about fast-tracking your learning, Premium Plus would be the perfect way to go! Enjoy perks such as personalised lessons with ongoing guidance from your own, native-speaking teacher, and one-on-one learning on your mobile app! You will not be alone in your learning. Weekly assignments with non-stop feedback, answers and corrections will ensure speedy progress.
Fun and Easy: Keeping the lessons fun and easy-to-learn is our aim, so you will stay motivated by your progress!
Do you know any ways to wish someone a ‘Merry Christmas’ in Portuguese? PortuguesePod101 brings you easy-to-learn translations and the correct pronunciation of Portuguese Christmas phrases!
Christmas is the annual commemorative festival of Christ’s birth in the Western Christian Church. It takes place on December 25th and is usually celebrated with much food and fanfare! However, not all cultures celebrate Christmas. In some countries, Christmas is not even a public holiday! However, many countries have adapted Christmas and its religious meaning to tally with their own beliefs, or simply in acknowledgment of the festival’s importance to other cultures. If you want to impress native Portuguese speakers with culturally-appropriate Christmas phrases and vocabulary, PortuguesePod101 will teach you the most important ways to wish someone a ‘Merry Christmas’ in Portuguese!
In Brazil, Christmas is one of the most anticipated holidays of the year. It is synonymous with seeing family and lots of love and gifts. Christmas is very important for all Christians in Brazil, so many of them go to churches for Mass or Christmas service.
Now, before we get into more detail, I’ve got a question for you-
Do you know where the most crowded place in Brazil is during the Christmas holiday?
If you don’t already know, you’ll find out a bit later, so keep reading!
Preparations for Christmas begin on November 30th. This is the time to put up the Christmas tree and decorate the whole house. The Christmas tree is called árvore de Natal in Brazil. The most common decorations are wreaths, lights and, cribs. After almost a month of festivities and celebrations in January, people take down the tree and put away the decorations.
The Christmas Supper or ceia de Natal is a large and abundant table in Brazil. Because of the country’s cultural diversity, many typical Christmas dishes come from other countries.
The roast turkey or Peru assado, for example, is very common in Brazil for Christmas. But many people opt for a Chester, which is a type of chicken, called chester in Portuguese, because it’s softer and juicier. And some families choose piglet or pork shank. And you can always find a good farofa salad or coleslaw. And for dessert, panettone, the Italian bread with eggs and fruits, and chocotone are always present, together with many seasonal fruits, nuts, and chestnuts. And the highlight is at midnight for kids, because it is the time they receive gifts from Santa Claus or in Portuguese, Papai Noel. Santa Claus arrives while the children are sleeping, and leaves the gifts under the Christmas tree.
Like in many other countries, many Brazilian children write a letter to Santa Claus before Christmas, explaining how they behaved and were obedient during the year and what they would like to receive as a gift.
Now it’s time to answer our quiz question-
Do you know where the most crowded place in Brazil is during the Christmas holiday?
Unlike many countries, Christmas is celebrated in the summer or verão in Brazil. So many people go to the beach or praia to spend Christmas and New Year. But it’s better to make this plan as early as possible, because everything will be booked quickly.
2. Holiday Greetings and Wishes for the Holiday Season
1- Merry Christmas!
Feliz Natal!
Do you know how to say ‘Merry Christmas’ in Portuguese? Learn here how to pronounce it perfectly! ‘Merry’ means to be joyful, to celebrate and generally be in good spirits. So, with this phrase you are wishing someone a joyful, celebratory remembrance of Christ’s birth!
2- Happy Kwanzaa!
Feliz Kwanzaa!
Surprise your African-American, or West African native friends with this phrase over the Christmas holidays! Kwanzaa is a seven-day, non-religious celebration, starting on Dec 26th each year. It has its roots in African American modern history, and many people celebrate both Kwanzaa and Christmas!
3- Have a happy New Year!
Tenha um feliz Ano Novo!
In countries where Christmas is not officially celebrated, but a Gregorian calendar is observed, this would be a friendly festive-season wish over New Year.
4- Happy Hanukkah!
Feliz Chanucá!
Hanukkah is the beautiful Hebrew festival over November or December each year. It is also called the ‘Festival of Lights’ and is celebrated to commemorate the Jewish freedom of religion.
5- Have a great winter vacation!
Tenha ótimas férias de inverno!
This is a good phrase to keep handy if someone doesn’t observe any religious festival over the Christmas holidays! However, this will only be applicable in the Northern hemisphere, where it is winter over Christmas.
6- See you next year!
Até o ano que vem!
Going away on holiday over Christmas season, or saying goodbye to someone about to leave on vacation? This would be a good way to say goodbye to your friends and family.
7- Warm wishes!
Votos calorosos!
An informal, friendly phrase to write in Portuguese Christmas cards, especially for secular friends who prefer to observe Christmas celebrations without the religious symbolism. It conveys the warmth of friendship and friendly wishes associated with this time of year.
8- Happy holidays!
Boas festas!
If you forget how to say ‘Merry Christmas!’ in Portuguese, this is a safe, generic phrase to use instead.
9- Enjoy the holidays!
Aproveite as férias!
After saying ‘Merry Christmas’ in Portuguese, this would be a good phrase with which to wish Christmas holiday-goers well! It is also good to use for secular friends who don’t celebrate Christmas but take a holiday at this time of the year.
10- Best wishes for the New Year!
Melhores votos para o ano novo!
This is another way of wishing someone well in the New Year if they observe a Gregorian calendar. New Year’s day would then fall on January 1st.
3. Must-Know Christmas Day Vocabulary
Christmas is associated with many traditions and religious symbols in multiple countries across the world. It originated centuries ago in the West with the birth of Christianity, and the celebrations are often embedded with rich cultural significance. So, by now you know how to say Merry Christmas in Portuguese! Next, learn pertinent vocabulary and phrases pertaining to Christmas, as well as how to pronounce them correctly. At PortuguesePod101, we make sure you sound like a native speaker!
1- Christmas
Natal
This is the Portuguese word for ‘Christmas’. Most happy Christmas wishes in Portuguese will include this word!
2- Snow
neve
In most Northern-hemisphere countries, Christmas is synonymous with snow, and for Christmas, the snowman is often dressed as Santa Claus.
3- Snowflake
floco de neve
Snowflakes collectively make up snow. A single snowflake is small, white, light like a feather and icy cold! When put under a microscope, the snowflake reveals itself to have the most beautiful, symmetrical patterns. These patterns have become popular Christmas decorations, especially in Western countries.
4- Snowman
boneco de neve
As you guessed – a snowman is only possible to build if it is snowing! What a fun way to spend Christmas day outside.
5- Turkey
pavão
Roast turkey is the traditional main dish on thousands of lunch tables on Christmas day, mainly in Western countries. What is your favorite Christmas dish?
6- Wreath
guirlanda
Another traditional Western decoration for Christmas, the wreath is an arrangement of flowers, leaves, or stems fastened in a ring. Many families like to hang a Christmas wreath outside on their houses’ front doors.
7- Reindeer
rena
Reindeer are the animals commonly fabled to pull Santa Claus’ sled across the sky! Western Christmas folklore tells of Father Christmas or Santa Claus doing the rounds with his sled, carrying Christmas presents for children, and dropping them into houses through the chimney. But who is Santa Claus?
8- Santa Claus
Papai Noel
Santa Claus is a legendary and jolly figure originating in the Western Christian culture. He is known by many names, but is traditionally depicted as a rotund man wearing a red costume with a pointy hat, and sporting a long, snow-white beard!
9- Elf
elfo
An elf is a supernatural creature of folklore with pointy ears, a dainty, humanoid body and a capricious nature. Elves are said to help Santa Claus distribute presents to children over Christmas!
10- Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Rudolfo, a rena do nariz vermelho
‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’ is a Christmas song based on an American children’s story book with the same name. Rudolph is one of Santa’s reindeer. The song became more famous than the book, and can still be heard playing in many shopping malls over Christmas time across the globe!
11- North Pole
Polo Norte
The cold North Pole is where Santa Claus is reputed to live with his reindeer!
12- Sled
trenó
A sled is a non-motorised land vehicle used to travel over snow in countries where it snows a lot, and is usually pulled by animals such as horses, dogs or reindeer. This one obviously refers to Santa’s sled! Another word for sled is sleigh or sledge.
13- Present
presente
Gift or present giving is synonymous with Christmas Eve and the greatest source of joy for children over this festive time! This tradition signifies that Christ’s birth was a gift to mankind, but not all people who hand out presents over Christmas observe the religious meaning.
14- Bell
sino
On Christmas Day, or Christmas Eve, many religious celebrants enjoy going to church for a special sermon and Christmas rituals. The start of the sermon is often announced with bells or a bell, if the church has one. For this reason, the sound of ringing bells is often associated with Christmas Day.
15- Chimney
chaminé
The chimney is the entrance Santa Claus uses to deliver children’s presents on Christmas Day, according to folklore! Wonder how the chubby man and his elves stay clean…?!
16- Fireplace
lareira
In most countries where it snows, Christmas is synonymous with a fire or burning embers in houses’ fireplaces. Families huddle around its warmth while opening Christmas presents. Also, this is where Santa Claus is reputed to pop out after his journey down the chimney!
17- Christmas Day
Dia de Natal
This is the official day of commemorative celebration of Christ’s birth, and falls each year on December 25.
18- Decoration
enfeite
Decorations are the colourful trinkets and posters that make their appearance in shops and homes during the Christmas holiday season in many countries! They give the places a celebratory atmosphere in anticipation of the big Christmas celebration. Typical Christmas decorations include colorful photographs and posters, strings of lights, figurines of Santa Claus and the nativity scene, poinsettia flowers, snowflakes and many more.
19- Stocking
meia de Natal
According to legend, Santa Claus places children’s presents in a red stocking hanging over the fireplace. This has also become a popular decoration, signifying Christmas.
20- Holly
azevinho
Holly is a shrub native to the UK, and parts of Europe, Africa and Asia. It is characterised by glossy, spiny-toothed leaves, small, whitish flowers, and red berries. Ironically, its significance for Christmas relates to Christ’s crucifixion and suffering rather than his birth. However, the leaves’ distinctive shape and image have become popular Christmas decorations.
21- Gingerbread house
casinha de gengibre
According to legend, the gingerbread house synonymous with Christmas is related to Christ’s birth place, Bethlehem. Bethlehem literally means ‘House of Bread’. Over centuries, it has become a popular treat over Christmas time in many non-religious households as well.
22- Candy cane
bengala de Natal
According to folklore, Christmas candy canes made their appearance first in Germany in the 16th century. A choir master gave children the candy canes to suck on in church in order to keep them quiet during the Christmas sermon! Apparently, the candy is shaped like a cane in remembrance of the shepherds who were the first to visit the baby Jesus. Today, like gingerbread houses, they are still a popular sweet over the festive season!
23- Mistletoe
visco
Mistletoe is a parasitic plant that grows on certain trees. In the Middle Ages, it was believed that the mistletoe has magical powers, and could protect a household from evil if hung above a door during December. The belief didn’t last but the habit did, and the mistletoe is another popular Christmas decoration!
4. Twelve Days of Christmas
Wow, you’re doing extremely well! You know how to wish someone a Merry Christmas in Portuguese, and you learned pertinent vocabulary too! The Twelve Days of Christmas is not very well known in modern times, so, you’re on your way to becoming an expert in Christmas traditions and rituals. Well done!
The Twelve Days of Christmas, also known as Twelvetide, is a traditional festive period of 12 days dedicated to celebrate the nativity of Christ. Christmas Day is, for many who observe Twelvetide, the first day of this period.
‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ is also a popular Christmas song about a series of gifts given on each day of Twelvetide. According to experts, these gifts were created as a coded reference to important symbols in the Christian church. Here is a list of those gifts mentioned in the song! Do you recognise them?
5. Top 10 Christmas Characters in American Culture
This is fantastic, you know how to explain almost everything about Christmas in Portuguese! However, do you know the most popular Christmas characters in American culture? Your knowledge will not be complete without this list.
6. PortuguesePod101 Is One Of The Best Online Language Schools Available!
We don’t just say this – we can prove it! Geared to your personal needs and goals, we have several learning paths from which to choose. From Portuguese for Absolute Beginners to Advanced Portuguese, lessons are designed to meet you where you are, and increase your language abilities in fun, easy and interactive lessons! Mastering a new language has never been this easy or enjoyable.
We have over a decade of experience and research behind us, and it shows! With thousands of audio and video lessons, detailed PDF lessons and notes, as well as friendly, knowledgeable hosts, PortuguesePod101 is simply unbeatable when it comes to learning correct Portuguese. Plenty of tools and resources are available when you study with us. New lessons are added every week so material remains fresh and relevant. You also have the option to upgrade and enjoy even more personalised guidance and services. This is a sure way to fast-track your learning!
So, this Christmas, why don’t you give yourself a present and enroll in PortuguesePod101? Or give an enrollment as a present to a loved one. It will be a gift with benefits for a whole lifetime, not just over Christmas!
