Celebrating Brazil's Vibrant Culture: 10 Fun Facts on National Independence Day

Welcome to the colorful world of Brazil! As we gear up to celebrate Brazil's National Independence Day, we wanted to share some fun facts about this magnificent country. Our brand is passionate about protecting the land where the Amazon Rainforest thrives, and today, we're sharing not only fascinating facts about Brazil but also shedding light on the vital role Açaí plays in this lush and diverse ecosystem. So, grab a bowl or smoothie cup of Açaí and let’s discover 10 fun and culturally rich facts about Brazil! 

The Birth of a Nation 

Brazil's National Independence Day is celebrated on September 7th, commemorating the day in 1822 when Brazil declared its independence from Portugal. It's a day filled with parades, music, and colorful displays of patriotism, showcasing Brazil's rich history. 

Carnival Extravaganza 

Brazil's Carnival is the world's largest and most famous, attracting millions of visitors every year in the month of February. This vibrant celebration, featuring samba dancing and extravagant costumes, takes place in the days leading up to Lent. It's a great showcase of Brazil's passion for music and dance. To learn more about this holiday, read this blog. 

The Marvelous Amazon Rainforest 

Brazil is home to 60% of the Amazon Rainforest, a vital global ecosystem. SAMBAZON is committed to protecting this natural wonder, as our name is an acronym for the Sustainable Management of the Brazilian Amazon. The Amazon provides the world with oxygen, and it's a source of our beloved Açaí berry. 

All about Açaí 

Açaí berries are small, dark-purple fruits that grow on palm trees in the Amazon Rainforest. Containing antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats, Açaí is a staple in Brazilian cuisine. While in the Western world and major Brazilian cities, it is traditionally enjoyed in frozen Açaí bowls or smoothies and served with fruit and granola, in the Amazon, they often consume it with manioc flour or use it as a sauce to accompany fish and other dishes. 

Christ the Redeemer 

Standing tall atop Corcovado Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This colossal monument has become a symbol of Brazil's deep-rooted spirituality. This art deco statue is the most visited tourist attraction in all of Brazil. 

A Land of Soccer Legends 

Brazil is a powerhouse in the world of soccer, (or football, as many would call it) producing legendary players like Pelé, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, and Marta. Marta, a six-time recipient of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Player of the Year award (in 2006-2010 and 2018), is widely regarded as the greatest female football player of all time. The sport is a uniting force for the nation, and every goal scored feels like a moment of national pride. The Brazil men's national football team has won the FIFA World Cup five times, the most of any team, in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, and 2002. 

Diverse Culture and Cuisine 

Brazil is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from indigenous people, Portuguese colonizers, African slaves, and many immigrants. This cultural diversity is reflected in its mouthwatering cuisine, from feijoada, a stew of beans with beef and pork that originates from Portugal, to coxinha, fried dough stuffed with chicken and a typical Brazilian cheese, which has unknown origins but some think there is French influencer on this delicious dish. 

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 

Açaí berries have been popular among people living in the Amazon River delta for millennia, but it wasn’t until the early 1970s when it began to gain popularity outside of their original growing area. Açaí pulp began to travel from the Amazon to northern Brazilian cities. In the ’80s, legendary Carlos Gracie popularized the Açaí bowl (frozen Açaí pulp blended with banana) in southern cities like Rio de Janeiro. Gracie established his own brand of diet called the Gracie Diet that sought to maximize the performance of his fighters. The centerpiece of it was the Açaí bowl. As time went on Brazilian surfers and fitness enthusiasts began to partake in the Açaí bowl trend through the ’90s. In the 2000’s organic Açaí pulp first boarded a flight to the USA and surfers throughout the whole country popularized it.  

Amazon River: The Lifeline 

The Amazon River is the world's second-longest river and the heart of the rainforest. It's a vital waterway, sustaining countless communities and wildlife. SAMBAZON's commitment to the Amazon and Organic and Fair Trade Certification also benefits the river and its people. 

Brazilian Hospitality 

Brazilian people are known for their warmth and friendliness. When you visit, you may have the chance to experience their genuine hospitality, from sharing a meal in their home to dancing samba in the streets at a festival. It's an integral part of what makes Brazil so special. 

As we celebrate Brazil's National Independence Day, SAMBAZON as a company is lucky to have its base in such a beautiful and culturally rich country. Whether it's the taste of Açaí, the rhythm of samba, or the wonder of the Amazon, Brazil offers a wealth of cultural and natural treasures worth celebrating. What's your favorite Brazil fact or memory if you’ve visited? Share in the comments below! 

Sources 

https://www.census.gov/newsroom/stories/brazil-independence-day.html 

https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/travel/global/top-10-foods-try-brazil

https://www.britannica.com/place/Amazon-Rainforest 

https://www.britannica.com/topic/Christ-the-Redeemer 

https://www.brazilcultureandtravel.com/brazil-soccer-players.html 

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Marta