In the United States, we recognize February 14th as Valentine’s Day. However, in Brazil Dia dos Namorados is celebrated on June 12th.
According to history and the website NationalToday, the reason why Brazilians celebrate Valentine’s Day in June is because of, “A publicist called João Doria who was trying to figure out how to improve sales for a clothing store. Doria got inspired by the Mother’s Day celebrations in Brazil and decided to create a special day for lovers to share gifts and exchange acts of love.”
There are similarities to both holidays in the U.S. and Brazil for example both holidays recognize a saint on this day. In the U.S. it’s Saint Valentine, and in Brazil, it’s Saint Anthony.
The celebrations that people in Brazil have for Dia dos Namorados are similar to the way we celebrate Valentine’s Day in America; flowers, chocolates, candlelit dinners, and gift exchanging. However, in Brazil, because June 13th is recognized as Saint Anthony’s Day there is a large feast that is held every year.
If you’re traveling to Brazil during Dia dos Namorados it might be a good idea to add some of these spots on your itinerary. Locals have said that these are the most romantic places in the city of Rio de Janeiro; Ipanema Beach, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the Botanical Garden of Rio de Janeiro.
Feliz Dia dos Namorados!
