Independence Day in Brazil

Observed annually in Brazil on September 7th, Independence Day is a holiday that commemorates the day when the country declared independence from Portugal. This declaration of independence occurred on September 7th, 1822, and was made by the 23-year-old son of the Portuguese King, Pedro de Alcântara.

He would then become the first emperor of Brazil and would rule the country until 1831. Today, this holiday is observed with much fanfare and with a day off for the general population. Because it’s a public holiday, schools, businesses, and non-essential government agencies are also closed for the day.

The History of Independence Day in Brazil

Since the 16th century, Brazil had been a colony of Portugal. During the 19th century, France invaded Portugal, and the royal family escaped to Brazil. The Regent Prince, Pedro di Alcântara, was given the authority to rule Brazil if the king died or ended up returning to Portugal.

When his father returned to Portugal in 1821, he took over and declared allegiance to Brazil. On September 7th, 1822, he proclaimed independence from Portugal. On November 15th, 1889, Brazil would become a republic. In 1949, Independence Day was officially proclaimed as an official public holiday.

Observing Independence Day in Brazil

This holiday is observed with the fanfare one would expect from any country’s Independence Day celebrations. There’s a party atmosphere, and there are military parades, festivals, art exhibitions, and other events on this day. There are also open-air concerts, air shows, and even fireworks in the evening. And of course, there’s plenty of great food being served on this holiday.

Foods include Fish Stew, Brazilian Potato Salad, and El Chupacabra Martinis. There’s also Passion Fruit Pie, Coxinha (a chicken-filled pastry), and Brazilian coconut rolls. On social media, the hashtags #SeteDeSetembro or #BrazilianIndependenceDay can be used to spread the word about this holiday across the Internet and the world.

Where is it celebrated?
Brazil (National holiday)
When is it?
This year (2024)
September 7 Saturday
Next year (2025)
September 7 Sunday
Last year (2023)
September 7 Thursday