Neusa: final revised edition

Brazil is a mainly catholic country, so Christmas is important to us. Like most

other countries, you see Christmas trees and decorations.
Festivities begin when the family get together on Christmas Eve night. There is a
big meal which normally consists of turkey, ham, assorted nuts, fruit, panettone
(traditional Italian cake) and champagne. People exchange presents once the meal is
over.
After Christmas, a lot of people head for the beach with friends, especially in
Copacabana - Rio de Janeiro, in order to celebrate new year.
On New Years eve night it is traditional for people to wear white because they
believe it will bring good fortune. Another superstition is to wade into the sea and jump
7 waves which also is thought to give you good luck.
On New Years Eve in So Paulo there is a customary international marathon
called So Silvestre. Afterwards, roughly 2 million people flock to Paulista Av. to watch
live shows and to see in the new year.
When the clock strikes midnight, everyone stops what they are doing to wish
each other a happy new year and to watch the fireworks.
New Year, like in other countries, is a time for celebration, reflection and hope
for the future.
Happy New Year!!!