Origin and History of Easter in Brazil
Brazil, officially referred to as Federative Republic of Brazil, is a Portuguese speaking country and is crowned as the world’s fifth largest country. The majority of the population follows Christianity and hence, Easter plays a very significant role here. One of the biggest festivals in the Christian calendar, Easter is a day of joy and happiness. Easter marks the Resurrection of Jesus on the third day of His crucifixion. Due to its location in the southern hemisphere, Easter falls in the autumn season in Brazil. The local name of Easter in Brazil is Páscoa and is marked with grand carnivals, grandeur, and religious solemnity. Particularly, Easter celebrations in places, like the historic towns of Minas Gerais and Novo Jerusalem and white sand beaches of Breezes Costa do Sauipe, are highly praiseworthy.
Local name: Páscoa
Ways to celeberate Páscoa in Brazil
Easter celebrations in Brazil hold a unique importance amongst all Catholic countries in the world. Festivities begin with the ceremonial occasion of “Holy Week” and blessings of the palm branches. These palm branches are intricately bonded in the patterns of crosses, banners, letters, and other religion-related objects. A specific food named as ‘pacoca’ is specially prepared in every household on this occasion, which is then offered to guests and loved ones. One of the most traditional customs is offering “Macela” flower in the church on Easter, which is kept by people in advance as this flower only blooms during the Lent season. After receiving blessings from the priest, this flower is used as a medicine for curing several diseases. Some of the most famous dishes that are prepared on Easter include Clip fish, Chocolate Easter, and Easter ring cake. The great festivity and celebrations are marked many days before even Easter arrives and preparations can mostly be seen in the shopping malls and stores unleashing special Easter bunnies on discounts.
