New Year in Brazil Hey, folks. How are you doing? I haven’t been a good student lately as December is too busy of a month. So, this is not a “real” entry, it’s more of an “informal chat” (that’s why I am writing in English, not in German haha). Anyway, today I am going to tell you a wee bit about New Year in Brazil, so if you’re learning (Brazilian) Portuguese, you’re interested in other cultures or you plan to spend New Year in Brazil someday, I hope it can be useful. Just like Christmas, New Year is another day we can eat without thinking about tomorrow. Food is usually the best part of it (just as it happens with all celebrations). The main dish is usually fish, specially cod (however, some people may serve lamb, turkey, chicken or ham). The sides tend to be roasted potatoes, farofa (seasoned cassava flour), oven baked rice and lentils. Some of the most traditional desserts are manjar (coconut pudding with plums) and pavê (biscuits with cream). It’s important to notice, though, that Brazil is a big country with lots of different traditions and cuisines, so options may vary. Traditions go beyond food and there’s a special way to dress during the occasion: people usually dress in white to symbolize peace. Other colours have different meanings, such as pink for love, yellow for money, etc (black is a controversial one, so if you decide to spend New Year dressed in black, you are likely to receive some stares). You can definitely stay at home celebrating with your family and friends, but going to concerts or to the beach are also alternatives - just book in advance ;) Of course, a display of fireworks is expected after the countdown to greet the new year. Then we can call it a night, right? Not really! Parties in Brazil can go all night long, and when I say all night long, I really mean it. People can go home around 6-7 a.m. (of course, if you like partying hard). Well, guys, guess this is it. If you want to tell me about how you celebrate New Year in your country or you have already written about it, please feel free to share! Furthermore, I’d like to thank you for taking your time to read this entry and thank those who have helped me with their language or the ones that tried to learn my language. Wishing you all a happy and prosperous New Year.