Another Christmas is upon us and there are many traditions that are part of this Christmas season in the Azores. Christmas in the Azores is celebrated with great joy by all, where culture, nativity scenes, Christmas lights and decorations and gastronomy are fundamental elements of this festive occasion.
A typical Azorean Christmas tradition and very well known is the “Menino Mija”. It’s common, at Christmas time, until Kings day (6 January), several groups of men and women run around the houses visiting relatives and friends, tasting the typical Christmas sweets and traditional liqueurs that are always present at the Christmas tables. Before entering the houses, it is traditional to ask: “Can the child pee? This expression means, that they are waiting to taste some tasty Christmas sweets, chocolates and drink some “calzins” (Azorean expression for drinking glasses of alcoholic drinks).
This is a very old custom in these islands that encourages conviviality and sharing and, in many cases, the reunion between families and friends, also exchanging gifts.
We wish you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2022, with much health and happiness. And good “mija” children with the necessary precautions!
Last modified: 29 de December, 2021
