Origin and History of New Year in Brazil
Brazilian New Year is considered as one of the traditional festivals by the people in the country. New Years Day is celebrated on January 1 as per the Gregorian (solar) calendar. On this date inhabitants of the country worship Lemanjá (Goddess of Water). She is considered as the mother of all the gods in the Umbanda religion. White flowers and rice are arranged into little boats and allowed to drift into the open sea. They thank the Goddess for protecting the natives from floods. Places like pubs, beaches and roads are thronged with people. The day is marked with numerous fireworks, musical shows and concerts. Millions of people flock to the beaches on December 31 to enjoy the occasion. Temporary stages are erected on the seaside for the live show events.
Local name: Revillion
Ways to celeberate Revillion in Brazil
New Year is celebrated with devotion and sincerity throughout the country. It is considered as a tradition to prepare and consume lentils and rice on this day. The people believe that it prosperity and good fortune for the forthcoming year. Brazilians adorn themselves in white colored dresses and offer flowers, jewelry, sweet foods to the Iemanjá (the Goddess of the Water). They float colorful candles in the water and offer their prayers to the Goddess of Sea. It is an ancient ritual followed by Brazilians to bring good fortune throughout the New Year. One can also witness a fabulous display of fireworks on this occasion. New Year celebrations are not complete without eatables. Dinner is said to be the best part of the occasion, farofa (tapioca grains flavored with spices), salads, rice, chicken and marajucá mousse (fruit) are relished by the people.
