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.
Winter Solstice (Macau)
The Winter Solstice, known as Dongzhi Festival, marks the shortest day and longest night of the year. Rooted in ancient Chinese tradition, it symbolizes balance, renewal, and family unity. Families gather for special meals, often featuring tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls) that represent harmony and reunion. In Macau, it is a time for both ancestral remembrance and joyful gatherings, reflecting the city’s blend of tradition and togetherness.