Brazilian Culture

Brazil is the largest country in South America. It has a lively and colorful culture that mixes indigenous, African, and European traditions. Brazil is famous for its music, dancing, and love of soccer. The country's biggest celebration, Carnival, draws millions of visitors every year.

Music and Dance

Samba is the most famous type of Brazilian music and dance. It has a fast beat and makes people want to move. Bossa nova is a smoother, more relaxed style of music from Brazil. Capoeira is a unique mix of martial arts, dance, and music that was created by enslaved Africans in Brazil. It is now practiced all around the world.

Sports and Celebrations

Soccer, called futebol in Portuguese, is the most popular sport in Brazil. Brazilian players like Pele are among the greatest soccer players in history. Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is the world's biggest party. Samba schools spend all year preparing costumes and floats. Millions of people dance through the streets during the four-day celebration.

Fun Facts

• Brazil has won the FIFA World Cup five times, more than any other country.
• Capoeira was disguised as a dance so that enslaved people could practice fighting without getting in trouble.
• The Amazon Rainforest, most of which is in Brazil, is home to more species of plants and animals than anywhere on Earth.

Did You Know?

Portuguese is the official language of Brazil, not Spanish! Brazil is the only country in South America where Portuguese is the main language.