The Magic of Epiphany in Brazil

Every January 6th, the Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of the Three Wise Men, also known as the Folía de Reis. According to tradition, Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthazar followed the Star of Bethlehem to Jesus, presenting Him with gold, frankincense, and myrrh, symbols of royalty, divinity, and immortality, respectively. This event, celebrated worldwide, is particularly notable in European countries, where some honor it with more enthusiasm than Christmas itself.

On this sixth day of January, families take down their Christmas decorations, marking the end of a 12-day celebration, which alludes to the age of Jesus when the Three Wise Men arrived, beginning on December 24th, the eve of His birth.

The tradition of Epiphany, of Portuguese and Spanish origin, arrived in Brazil in the 19th century, adapting in a unique way. While in Spanish lands it is called Fiesta de Reyes and in Italy Befana, in Brazil, states such as Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Bahia, Minas Gerais, Espírito Santo, and Goiás keep the flame of the tradition alive.

The “Reisados,” especially in the countryside, blend European influences with local expressions in music, dance, and prayers. This festivity, rooted in Brazilian folklore, occurs between January 1st and 6th, when the "companionship of kings" visits homes, singing verses accompanied by a variety of instruments.

The groups participating in Folía de Reis, composed of ambassadors, contramasters, Wise Men, clowns, lieutenants, and folians, present theatrical pieces, parades, and masses throughout the celebration. The diversity of the celebrations, from typical foods to music and dances, reflects regional traditions, standing out in various regions of the country, where the ambassador's house often becomes the epicenter of the party.

The tradition of going "from door to door," led by the ambassador, brings the joy of Jesus' birth to Brazilian homes. The verses, created like a repentista, are only sung in houses that have images of the baby Jesus, and families that receive the visit of the 'Reisado' offer food to the folians as a symbol of hospitality.

On Epiphany day, January 6th, the flag returns to the ambassador's house, kicking off the festivities. This entire celebration aims not only to commemorate the arrival of the Kings but also to reaffirm God's love for humanity. A charming tradition, rich in cultural and religious diversity, that remains alive in the heart of Brazil.