How Christmas Is Celebrated in South America
South America, a region rich in cultural and religious heritage, celebrates Christmas with warmth and joy. Each country has its own traditions, blending religious ceremonies, family gatherings, and lively celebrations. Despite the warm climate and summer weather, Christmas in South America is a time for families to come together and celebrate the birth of Jesus. In this article, we will explore how Christmas is celebrated in countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Venezuela.
Argentina
Traditional Celebrations
In Argentina, Christmas is a major family holiday. Celebrations begin with Christmas Eve ("Nochebuena") on December 24. Families gather around the table for a festive dinner featuring traditional dishes like asado (grilled meat), cold salads, empanadas, and Christmas desserts such as "pan dulce" (sweet bread with candied fruit). After dinner, families wait for midnight to set off fireworks and exchange gifts.
Fireworks
Fireworks are an essential part of Christmas celebrations in Argentina. On the evening of December 24, after the festive dinner, people gather in the streets to set off fireworks. The bright light show symbolizes joy and the beginning of the holiday festivities.
Brazil
Midnight Masses
Christmas in Brazil is celebrated with great enthusiasm, and the main event is attending "Missa do Galo" — midnight Mass held in Catholic churches across the country on December 24. After Mass, families gather for a festive meal. Brazil's rich culinary tradition is showcased during Christmas dinner, with dishes such as roast turkey, rice with vegetables, salads, and fresh fruits.
Festive Decorations
In major Brazilian cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, Christmas is adorned with bright lights and festive events. Rio hosts one of the largest floating Christmas trees in the world on Lagoa Lake, illuminated by thousands of lights. Many homes are decorated with Christmas trees, Nativity scenes, and other festive decorations.
Colombia
Night of Candles (Día de las Velitas)
Colombia begins its Christmas celebrations with the Night of Candles ("Día de las Velitas") on December 7. On this day, streets and homes are adorned with hundreds of candles and lanterns, symbolizing the purity and light that the Virgin Mary brings. This celebration marks the beginning of the Christmas season, and many Colombians gather to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
"Novena"
One of the most unique traditions in Colombia is the "Novena," a nine-day prayer that starts on December 16 and ends on Christmas Eve. Each evening, families gather to pray, sing Christmas carols, and enjoy festive games. It’s a time for relatives and friends to come together and prepare for the birth of Jesus.
Peru
Christmas Fair "Santaurios"
In Peru's capital, Lima, the annual Christmas fair "Santaurios" offers a festive market where visitors can buy Christmas gifts, handmade crafts, and local products. The fair also features Christmas performances and concerts.
Festive Dishes
In Peru, the Christmas dinner includes traditional dishes like "panetón" (Italian-style fruit bread that has become popular in Latin America), along with roast turkey stuffed with vegetables. A hot chocolate drink called "chocolatada" is a must-have during the festive meal.
Venezuela
Festive Atmosphere
In Venezuela, Christmas is a warm and lively celebration. In addition to religious rituals, music and dance play a key role in the festivities. Streets are filled with the sound of "gaita," traditional Venezuelan Christmas music, as people dance and celebrate.
Traditional Dishes
A centerpiece of the Christmas table in Venezuela is "hallacas" — cornmeal pockets filled with meat, vegetables, and raisins, wrapped in banana leaves. This dish is an essential part of holiday dinners in Venezuelan families.
Conclusion
Christmas in South America is a vibrant and joyful holiday that brings people together through religious ceremonies, family gatherings, and festive celebrations. Each country on the continent has its own unique traditions that add special color to the holiday. From the fiery fireworks in Argentina to the musical parades in Venezuela, Christmas in South America is always celebrated with warmth and love, no matter the climate.
