in rio de janeiro there are some very unique traditions, including the setting up of traditional nativity scenes in churches, stores and homes - the arrival of papai noel the gift bringer who is dressed in silk, because of the hot weather, and the exchange of gifts with a secret friend (amigo 'secreto' or 'oculto').

decorations include fresh flowers and in rio de janeiro, the world's largest floating christmas tree.

december is the month of the offerings to the orixás - in Yoruba, Umbanda, and candomblé religions orixás are African deified ancestors that match and represent Nature, forces of nature, and its manifestations.