Christmas around the world: in Portugal
Dans ce pays de lumière qu’est le Portugal, les cadeaux sont apportés aux enfants par le Pai Natal (Santa Claus), le soir du 24 décembre. Dans la journée, les femmes préparent toutes ensemble les plats délicieux qui composeront la table de Noël.
For Christmas, the north and south of the country cultivate their own specificities. In the north, traditions are influenced by Normandy. Druids and bards are among the legends brought back by the fireside. Further to the center of Portugal, Catholic rituals are found (midnight mass, hymns, prayers).
In every corner of the country, the flame is present. Custom dictates that the logs are kept "alive" all Christmas night. It is said that "the bigger the log and the longer it takes to burn, the more prosperous the coming year will be."
Portuguese New Year's Eve
Traditionally, the meal revolves around a stuffed turkey. It is bought alive several days before Christmas and fed by the cook's hands. In the past, it was customary to get the turkey drunk on the day of its slaughter. This practice, in addition to making the bird's final moments easier, was said to make its flesh more tender.
Another traditional dish: boiled cod with eggs and potatoes, is found on every Portuguese table at Christmas. A delight!
As the Portuguese have a sweet tooth, biscuits, cakes and sweets abound on the tables of the Festival.
Then, it's time for music and dancing until morning!
Happy Christmas!
