Natal
holiday, Brazil
In Brazil Christmas is Natal. To wish someone a merry Christmas say Feliz Natal! It is also called Papai Noel.
Meaning: the Christian holiday on December 25 (noun)
Ways to say it
| Portuguese | Note |
|---|---|
| Natal | holiday, Brazil |
| Feliz Natal! | greeting |
| Papai Noel | Santa Claus |
Brazilians say Feliz Natal e um próspero Ano Novo to wish a happy holiday season.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Christmas falls in the Brazilian summer, so many people spend it at the beach or at outdoor gatherings.
When do people say it?
The main family meal is the ceia de Natal, eaten on the night of December 24. Santa Claus is Papai Noel.
Did you know?
- The word Natal comes from the Latin word for birth.
Examples in context
- Feliz Natal!Merry Christmas!
- Nós vamos passar o Natal com a família.We are spending Christmas with the family.
- O Papai Noel chegou!Santa Claus has arrived!
Example conversation
Clara calls her grandmother on Christmas Eve from Fortaleza.
- ClaraFeliz Natal, vovó!Merry Christmas, grandma!
- VovóFeliz Natal, minha querida!Merry Christmas, my dear!
- ClaraA ceia já está pronta?Is the dinner ready yet?
