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The new year marks a very special celebration in Brazil. On this week's blog, we wanted to talk about the traditions and celebrations from our roots at this special time of the year, Fazendeiros.
In Brazil, the new year is referred to as 'Réveillon', which is the French term. Brazil has a mix of both native superstitions but also some African rituals during their celebrations. Most of these celebrations are traditionally carried out in Rio De Janeiro, however they're widely practised across the whole country.
Lentils are a very important food in Brazil, and are known for their healthy properties. This means that lentil dishes are a common sight on New Year's Eve; it's said that eating them will bring health into the new year. Pork and fish are very commonly eaten on this day, as these are animals that 'move forward', which is symbolic of moving into the new year. In contrast, poultry is avoided until after midnight, as birds are seen to 'scratch the earth backwards'. This means that you will be moving backwards into the new year, not forwards.
At the stroke midnight, it's tradition to chew seven pomegranate seeds without swallowing them. It's then said that preserving them in your wallet will bring you good fortune for the year to come.
Right after the clock strikes midnight, Brazilians rush to the sea to jump over seven waves, while making a wish with each jump. It's said that this will make your wishes come true, as long as you don't turn away from the sea. In areas of Brazil that aren't near beaches, people will jump three times on their right foot while holding champagne. It's said that throwing the champagne over your shoulder after these jumps will give you a better year than the last.
Copacabana beach is the most popular beach in Brazil for these celebrations. In 2013, an incredible 2.3 million people celebrated the new year on this beach alone.
After the traditional celebrations, it's common for people to meet with friends and family and go to parties. Sometimes, these parties are so lively and so large, they don't end until sunrise on New Year's Day!
Have you ever celebrated Réveillon in Brazil? We'd love to here your thoughts and stories on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter if you have.
We want to wish you all a very happy New Year, and we look forward to welcoming you in 2019, Fazendeiros.
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Online Reservations
Tables of up to 10 guests can be booked straight from our website (9 for Fazenda Birmingham and Edinburgh).
For larger tables please contact [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] and our Reception Teams will be happy to help with your enquiry.
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Dress Code
Our dress code is “elegant smart casual”. We do not require gentlemen to wear jacket and tie, however, we do not permit sportswear (gym wear) or beachwear.
Children
We welcome children of all ages and believe we provide a great atmosphere for families to enjoy the restaurant experience. In the evening if guests wish to make a reservation with children under the age of 8 please do so for no later than 6pm (reservation durations vary depending on the number of guests so please note the reservation cannot go beyond 8pm). When making a reservation please count children in the total number of guests and let us know if you need a high chair or space for a pram/pushchair.
Please note: We politely request that children are always supervised and remain seated at the table to allow our teams and other guests to move around the restaurant safely and maintain physical distance.
Lastly, please note that children under 16 years of age need to be accompanied by an adult to dine.
Cancellations & Deposits
We might require card details for some reservations. Your card will not be charged upon booking and your details will be securely processed by Stripe.
If you no longer wish to keep your reservation, please let us know with as much notice as possible. Should you cancel your reservation or reduce the booking size less than 24 hours before your reservation date and time, a charge of £10.00 per guest will be processed.
Halal Selection
Halal reservations must be made at least 48 hours in advance.
Allergens
The team at Fazenda take food safety very seriously and particularly so when it concerns allergens in food. On our website you can view allergen information on our Menu page. When visiting us you'll have access to it via our menus and also on our Market Table.
Smoking
In line with legislation passed in 2007 Fazenda is a no-smoking restaurant. We do not allow e-cigarettes inside either.
Pets & Guide Dogs
Animals are not accepted unless assisting guests with additional needs.
Photography
Guests are allowed to take photos and videos for personal use inside the private dining room, gardens and on the terrace. At the moment we are not able to accommodate any photography requests for professional or educational purposes until further notice.
**What are your opening days and times? **
To view each restaurant opening times please click on Locations and choose your local Fazenda.
Are you accepting walk-ins?
We are now accepting walk-ins once again.
How can I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation via our website or by contacting your local Fazenda by clicking on Locations.
Do I need to pay a deposit for my reservation?
We might require card details for some reservations. Your card will not be charged upon booking and your details will be securely processed by Stripe.
If you no longer wish to keep your reservation, please let us know with as much notice as possible. Should you cancel your reservation or reduce the booking size less than 24 hours before your reservation date and time, a charge of £10.00 per guest will be processed.
Can I have drinks at the bar?
Absolutely, and reservations are not needed in advance for our bar areas.
Are Christmas reservations available?
They are indeed, via our reservations page.