The cultural traditions that make Brazil a unique place

The cultural traditions that make Brazil a unique place
From North to South, Brazil is full of charm and surprises. Every single corner of this huge country has its own tradition and it’s possible to find events that show a bit of this rich culture throughout the whole year.

Lavagem do Bonfim, Carnival, Festas Juninas, Cirio de Nazare and the Paraty International Literary Festival are just a few examples of this mix of culture, music, folklore, history, colors and flavors called Brazil. Numerous artistic manifestations make the country a unique destination that invites you to learn more about Brazilian culture in the five regions of the country.

The mouthwatering Brazilian cuisine

You can’t get enough of it! Brazilian cuisine is full of delicious foods and drinks. You have to try, for example, typical dishes like pamonha, canjica, pato no tucupi, cornmeal cake, cheese bread and carangueijada. And for the drink connoisseurs, we offer plenty of caipirinha and cachaça! The names may sound funny, but the flavors are unmatched.

Carnival, the great national festival

One of the greatest celebrations in the world! Of course it’s in Brazil. The national carnival is known worldwide. Whether it’s in the street carnival, in the samba schools parade or in parties, you just can’t stand still in this celebration. Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and Olinda are the favorite destinations to enjoy this time of year. In Bahia, the carnival motto is "Atrás do trio elétrico só não vai quem já morreu” (Only the dead don’t follow the trio electrico).

The diversity of Brazilian people

The mix of accents, customs and traditions in Brazil is the result of the miscegenation of native Brazilian, European and African cultures. And the outcome of this mixture is the enormous historical and culture diversity in Brazil, with different accents scattered throughout the country and its spontaneous, cheerful and welcoming people.

Customs and traditions

Learn more about the customs and traditions of the five regions of Brazil:

Northern Brazilian folklore:Northern Brazilian culture is represented by popular festivals. Every year, in June, people from all over the country take part in one of the main celebrations of Brazilian folklore: Parintins Folklore Festival, also known as Festa do Boi Bumba. The Festival lasts for three days and tells the legend of the death and resurrection of an ox and the daily life of the local people through dances of native Brazilian origin. The Catholic procession Cirio de Nazare, in Belem (PA), is also a relevant celebration, gathering believers for a parade in homage to Our Lady of Nazareth. Northern cuisine is also full of unique flavors you have to try.

Festas Juninas in the Northeast: The Northeast is fascinating not only for its beautiful landscapes of exuberant nature, but also for its culture. Being extremely expressive, the region attracts huge crowds during carnival. In June, another gigantic celebration takes hold of the region: the traditional festas juninas (June festivals). With forro playing in the background, a typical Northeastern rhythm, the cities of Caruaru, in Pernambuco, and Campina Grande, in Paraiba, celebrate Sao Joao with dances, quadrilhas, typical dishes and handicraft items. It’s also in the Northeast where influences of African culture in music, religion and the many flavors of Brazilian gastronomy is highlighted.

Central-West region: Brasilia architecture and Festa do Divino: In the Federal District, the capital city of Brazil, Brasilia, deserves to be mentioned. Besides being the center of political decisions in the country, the city has internationally known architectural works, such as Palacio da Alvorada, the National Congress, the Cathedral of Brasilia, Esplanada dos Ministerios and Palacio do Planalto, among others. 140 km from Brasilia, there is the small town of Pirenopolis, in Goias, where one of the most significant cultural expressions in the region takes place: Festa do Divino, which celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the twelve apostles.

Southeastern cultural liveliness: Every year, during Carnival, thousands of people gather in the samba schools parade at Sambodromo in Rio de Janeiro, on the famous Marques de Sapucai street. Near Rio, the town of Paraty houses the Paraty International Literary Festival (Flip), which is part of the international literary festival circuit. In Sao Paulo, the largest city of the country, there is always something going on. Sampa, as it’s called, has a lively nightlife, with bars, clubs and pubs. There are plenty of great options for those who enjoy more excitement. Another festival you can’t miss is Festa do Peao de Barretos, in the countryside of Sao Paulo state. The festival’s main attractions are rodeos and concerts, taking place in August and lasting about ten days.

European charm in Southern Brazil: Traces of European culture make the South of Brazil a place where tradition is celebrated. Festa da Uva (Grape Festival), in Caxias do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, and the famous Oktoberfest in Blumenau, Santa Catarina, offer lots of beer, wine, beautiful people and, of course, the traditional chimarrao, a typical Southern beverage that can’t be out of any social event in the region.