Papai Noel
everyday, Brazil
In Brazil Santa Claus is Papai Noel, literally "Father Christmas". Some people also call him Bom Velhinho, "the good old man".
Meaning: Christmas gift-bringer (noun)
Ways to say it
| Portuguese | Note |
|---|---|
| Papai Noel | everyday, Brazil |
| Bom Velhinho | affectionate |
Children write letters to Papai Noel and families put gifts under the tree on Christmas Eve, the night of 24 December.
When do people say it?
In Brazil, December is summer, so Papai Noel often appears in red clothes in warm weather. Malls and shops decorate for the season.
Did you know?
- Christmas in Brazil falls in summer, so the idea of a fur-trimmed red coat is more a tradition than a practical outfit.
Examples in context
- O Papai Noel chegou!Santa has arrived!
- Escrevi uma carta para o Papai Noel.I wrote a letter to Santa.
- O Bom Velhinho traz presentes.The good old man brings gifts.
Example conversation
On Christmas Eve in Goiânia, little Laura asks her father Marcos about the gifts.
- LauraPapai, o Papai Noel vem hoje?Dad, is Santa coming tonight?
- MarcosVem, se você dormir cedo.He is, if you go to bed early.
- LauraEu vou dormir!I will sleep!
