How South America Celebrates Christmas

Christmas is a special time of the year, filled with traditions and celebrations all around the world. South America is no exception, and each country has its own unique way of celebrating the holiday season. In this blog post, we will explore how South Americans celebrate Christmas and the traditions that make it a special time of the year.

Argentina

In Argentina, Christmas falls in the middle of summer, so it’s common to have outdoor barbecues or “asados” with family and friends. The day before Christmas, many families go to church and then have a big dinner. At midnight, they open presents and toast with champagne. It’s also traditional to eat “Pan de Navidad,” a sweet bread with raisins and nuts.

Brazil

In Brazil, Christmas celebrations start on the night of December 24th with a big feast called “Ceia de Natal.” The feast usually includes “peru de Natal,” a roasted turkey, “farofa,” a seasoned cassava flour, and “rabanada,” a sweet fried bread. On Christmas Day, families usually spend time together and attend church services.

Chile

Chileans celebrate Christmas with a traditional dish called “Cazuela de Ave,” a broth-based soup made with chicken, corn, rice, and potato. It’s also traditional to go to midnight mass on Christmas Eve and then have a feast with family and friends. Another popular tradition is to light fireworks at midnight to celebrate the arrival of Christmas.

Colombia

In Colombia, Christmas is celebrated with “Novena,” nine days of prayer and caroling leading up to Christmas Eve. Families often gather in the evenings to sing Christmas carols, eat traditional sweets like “Buñuelos” and “Natilla,” and exchange gifts. On Christmas Day, families often attend church services and have big feasts.

Peru

In Peru, Christmas is celebrated with “Chocolatada,” a hot chocolate party with panettone, a sweet bread. It’s also traditional to have a “Nacimiento,” featuring miniature figurines depicting the nativity scene, which is often placed in homes, churches or public places. On Christmas Eve, families usually gather together to have dinner and then attend midnight mass.

Venezuela

Venezuelans celebrate Christmas with “Hallacas,” a traditional dish made with maize dough filled with seasoned beef, pork or chicken, raisins, olives, and capers, wrapped in banana leaves and boiled. They also celebrate with street parades called “Parrandas” and light fireworks. On Christmas Day, families attend church services and have big meals together.

Conclusion

In South America, Christmas is a time for family gatherings, delicious food, and traditions. While each country has its unique way of celebrating the holiday season, the values of love, peace, and joy are shared across the continent. Whether you’re in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Peru or Venezuela, you’ll find rich cultural traditions and joyful celebrations during the Christmas season.