Children’s Day in Brazil

First Published on the 12th of October, 2020 by Patrick Carpen.

In the English world, we set aside special days to celebrate and honor the divine gifts mothers, fathers, boyfriends, and girlfriends. But in Brazil, there is also a special day to celebrate the joy that children bring to our lives. Yes, there is a special “Children’s Day” in Brazil. The holiday, which is observed as a national holiday, is celebrated on the 12th of October each year in Brazil.

The expression “Children’s Day” is translated from Portuguese “Dia das Criancas.” The idea of a day to honor children was the brainchild of federal deputy Galdino de Valle Filho who first suggested the idea in 1924. On the 5th of November, 1924, then President Authur Bernardes, through decree nº 4867, officially named the 12th of October as “Dia das Criancas.” The first official children’s day in Brazil then was celebrated on October 12th, 1925.

What Happens on Children’s Day in Brazil?

Children’s Day in Brazil is a day set aside to honor children. Naturally then, parents buy their children gifts, take them out for special treats, trips etc. But there are also community activities celebrated across the country. On top of that, the government shares gifts to the children through the Brazilian Police who drive through the streets of Brazil in cities across the country giving gifts to children. The aim of the holiday is to make children feel special, honored, important, and loved.

Banks, schools, and many other public offices are usually closed on the 12th of October, Children’s Day, because it is a national holiday.

Children’s Day is also celebrated in other parts of the world on different days. For example, in the United States it is celebrated on the first Sunday of June every year. However, in Brazil, the holiday is much more anticipated and more intensely celebrated than in most countries.