December 25 is celebrated as Christmas Day (Natal in Portuguese), one of Brazil’s most cherished holidays. Families gather for late-night feasts, attend Missa do Galo (Midnight Mass), and exchange gifts in celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
- Natal – From Latin natalis, meaning birth. In Brazil, it refers both to Christmas and the concept of new beginnings. It is also a given name symbolizing joy and life.
- Cristiano – The Portuguese form of Christianus, meaning follower of Christ. The name reflects devotion and faith, common in Brazil’s Christian tradition.
- Emmanuel – From Hebrew Immanuel, meaning God is with us. It symbolizes divine presence and is often associated with the Nativity story.
