Christmas in Catholic Brazil is celebrated on December 25. Christmas celebration combines Portuguese, American and Mexican traditions. At the beginning of December, scenes of the birth of Christ are set in some houses, shopping centers, and other public places. These are houses with straw cradles symbolizing the birthplace of Jesus. There are theatricals on the life of a shepherd and his family. Children are waiting for good Papa Noel (Santa Claus) who brings beautifully packed gifts. On Christmas Eve, there are real feasts with fresh fruit, roast turkey, walnut pies, chocolate cakes, and lots of wine.
During Easter week, Rio de Janeiro hosts a magnificent carnival. Thus, multi-colored Rio blossoms even more thanks to dancers in gorgeous costumes, skillful drummers, masquerade balls - and the audience is invited to join. Easter eggs are always chocolate, local shops are full of their varieties. October 7 marks the Independence Day, and Republic Day of Brazil is celebrated on November 15 . On this day, in 1889, Brazil was proclaimed as a republic. On November 15, military orchestras march across the country in honor of such an important event. Surprisingly, Brazil has its own Oktoberfest - and not one. The festival takes place in the city of Blumenau, a former German colony, and offers a unique blend of Brazilian and German cultures, music, and cuisines. Another Oktoberfest is held in Santa Cruz do Sul, a city founded by German immigrants.
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