Lady of Aparecida Day (Brazil)
Our Lady of Aparecida Day honors Nossa Senhora Aparecida, the patron saint of Brazil. The day commemorates the 1717 discovery of a small clay statue of the Virgin Mary by fishermen in the Paraíba River, which became a symbol of hope and faith. Over centuries, devotion to Our Lady of Aparecida grew into one of Brazil’s most cherished traditions. Millions of pilgrims visit the Basilica of the National Shrine of Aparecida, one of the largest churches in the world, to pay tribute.
Black Consciousness Day
Black Consciousness Day in Brazil honors the history, culture and resilience of Afro-Brazilians. The date marks the death of Zumbi dos Palmares, a symbol of resistance against slavery. The day celebrates Black identity, acknowledges the struggles against racism, and promotes equality, pride and cultural heritage across Brazil.