Christmas in Portugal
Christmas is a holiday in Portugal.
When is Christmas in Portugal
Christmas is celebrated on 25, December, 2023 in Portugal.
About Christmas in Portugal
Christmas is a significant holiday in Portugal, and it is celebrated with much enthusiasm and joy. The Christmas season in Portugal starts on December 8th, which is the day of the Immaculate Conception, and it lasts until January 6th, which is the day of the Epiphany.
During this period, the streets and homes are decorated with colorful lights, Christmas trees, and nativity scenes. The nativity scene is a crucial part of the Portuguese Christmas tradition, and many families create elaborate scenes with miniature figures depicting the birth of Jesus Christ.
On Christmas Eve, families gather together for a traditional dinner that includes codfish, boiled potatoes, and cabbage. After dinner, many people attend the midnight mass, known as the “Missa do Galo,” which means “Rooster’s Mass.” The name comes from the legend that a rooster crowed at midnight on the night that Jesus was born.
On Christmas Day, families exchange gifts and enjoy a festive lunch that typically includes roasted meats, vegetables, and traditional desserts such as “Bolo Rei,” a sweet bread filled with nuts and dried fruits.
Overall, Christmas is a time of joy and celebration in Portugal, and it is a time when families come together to enjoy each other’s company and share in the festive spirit.
History of Christmas in Portugal
Christmas is a widely celebrated holiday in Portugal, with a rich history and tradition. The origins of Christmas in Portugal can be traced back to the early days of the Christian church, when the birth of Jesus was celebrated as a religious holiday.
The celebration of Christmas in Portugal has been influenced by a variety of cultural and religious traditions over the centuries. The country’s long history of Catholicism has played a significant role in shaping the way Christmas is celebrated in Portugal.
In Portugal, the Christmas season officially begins on December 8th, which is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. This day is a public holiday in Portugal and is celebrated with various religious ceremonies and processions.
One of the most important Christmas traditions in Portugal is the creation of the Nativity scene, or Presépio. These elaborate displays depict the birth of Jesus and are often set up in churches, homes, and public spaces throughout the country.
Another popular Christmas tradition in Portugal is the singing of Christmas carols, or Canções de Natal. These songs are often sung by groups of carolers who go from house to house, spreading holiday cheer and collecting donations for charity.
On Christmas Eve, it is common for families in Portugal to gather for a festive meal that typically includes bacalhau (salt cod), roasted meats, and other traditional dishes. After dinner, many families attend Midnight Mass, or Missa do Galo, which is a special service that commemorates the birth of Jesus.
Overall, the Christmas holiday in Portugal is a time of joy, celebration, and reflection. It is a time for families and friends to come together, share traditions, and celebrate the birth of Jesus.
How is Christmas celebrated in Portugal
Christmas is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm in Portugal. The celebrations usually begin on the 24th of December, which is known as Consoada, and continue until the 6th of January, which is known as Dia de Reis (Day of the Kings).
On Consoada, families gather together for a big feast, which typically includes codfish, boiled potatoes, and cabbage. The meal is followed by desserts like Bolo Rei (King’s Cake) and Rabanadas (Portuguese-style French toast). After dinner, families attend midnight mass, known as Missa do Galo, to celebrate the birth of Jesus.
On Christmas Day, families spend time together and exchange gifts. In some regions of Portugal, it is also customary to visit friends and neighbors to exchange greetings and share food.
Throughout the Christmas season, many cities and towns in Portugal are decorated with lights and ornaments, and there are often Christmas markets where people can buy gifts and traditional foods. The celebrations culminate on Dia de Reis, when children receive gifts from the Three Wise Men, and families gather together for one final feast before the end of the holiday season.
Dates
Christmas will be celebrated in Portugal on 2023-12-25, 2024-12-25, 2025-12-25, 2026-12-25, 2027-12-25 in the comming years.
