From Christmas to Epiphany

In the Algarve, Christmas celebrations begin on the 8^th December with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception and continue to Epiphany, celebrating by singing charolas and janeiras (seasonal songs).

The country Nativity Scene, which is common in many inland Algarvian towns and villages, is mounted on stairways, with the upright figure of Jesus standing at the top on a throne adorned with embroidered linen, miniature wheat fields, oranges and flowers.

In the Nativity Scene of Franciscan origin, common in the cities, the infant Jesus lies on straw made from cork chippings, with moss and polished stones to represent the cave in which Jesus was born.

Traditional Christmas fritters, either plain or stuffed with pumpkin jam, and golden toast sprinkled with cinnamon, are a must during this season, as are the almond sweets and dried fruits.  To warm the stomach, Algarvians recommend homemade arbutus berry brandy or fig brandy.

Between Christmas day and the Epiphany, as tradition dictates, people go out into the streets to sing janeiras, receiving in turn money, seasonal fritters or a glass of brandy.  Another tradition of Christmas in the Algarve are charolas, groups who sing, among other songs, verses alluding to the birth of Christ and to the coming of the Wise Men.