Culture Highlight: Celebrating Carnival in Brazil

What is Carnival?

Carnival is a festive season that occurs before the liturgical season of Lent. It usually takes place in February or March, and it is widely celebrated in countries with a large Catholic population. The word "carnival" comes from the Latin phrase "carne vale," which means "farewell to meat." This refers to the tradition of abstaining from meat during Lent, which starts on Ash Wednesday.

Origins and Significance of Carnival

The origins of carnival can be traced back to ancient Roman pagan celebrations, which involved feasting, drinking, and dancing. As Christianity spread throughout Europe, these traditions were adapted into the pre-Lenten celebrations we know today. Carnival is known for its vibrant costumes, parades, and street parties that symbolize indulgence before the fasting period of Lent.

Celebrations Around the World

Carnival is celebrated in many countries around the world, but it is most famous in cities like Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Venice, Italy; and New Orleans, United States. Each location has its unique traditions and festivities that reflect their culture and history. However, no matter where it is celebrated, carnival is a time for people to come together and celebrate life and community.

Carnival Foods and Drinks

Food is a crucial part of any celebration, and carnival is no exception. Some special street foods enjoyed during Carnival are feijoada, carurú, moqueca baiana, brigadeiros, and more. These dishes are often made with local ingredients and reflect the cultural diversity of the region.

‍

‍

Fun and Educational Carnival Activities for Kids

Carnival is not just for adults; it can be a fun and educational experience for kids as well. Here are some activities that you can do with your children to celebrate Carnival:

Make Masks: Decorate plain masks with feathers, glitter, and paint to create colorful carnival masks. This activity allows kids to be creative while also learning about the significance of masks in carnival celebrations.
Create Costumes: Get crafty by making costumes using materials like paper, fabric scraps, and ribbons. This activity promotes imagination and teaches kids the importance of dressing up during carnival.
Learn About Different Cultures: Carnival is celebrated differently around the world, so use this opportunity to teach your children about different cultures and their traditions. You can also try making traditional Carnival foods from different countries.
Have a Parade: Organize a mini parade inside or in your backyard, complete with music, costumes, and props. This activity allows kids to experience the excitement of a Carnival parade while also promoting teamwork and coordination.
Dance to Samba Music: Samba is the traditional dance of Brazil, and it's a crucial part of Carnival celebrations. Teach your children some basic samba steps and have a mini dance party at home.

Make your Family's Carnival Celebration Special with AuPairCare

As a trusted au pair agency with decades of experience matching au pairs from a variety of cultures with American families, we celebrate the importance of cultural exchange. Whether you are interested in using Carnival celebrations to bond with your Brazilian au pair or are simply looking for a cultural celebration to educate children in an entertaining way, AuPairCare encourages you to try out these activities and make your family's carnival celebration extra special this year.

‍