December 17, 2013
WASHINGTON – Mrs. Rose Brito, spouse of Portuguese Ambassador Nuno Brito, hosted the MWA’s December Holiday Luncheon at her residence on December 17.
After MWA President Sultana Hakim welcomed everyone with her opening remarks, Ms. Brito spoke about the history of Christmas and the importance of Christmas in her country as well as in her family. Like in many other countries, the holidays are very important to the Portuguese. Christmas is a time of gathering and family and people around the world have been observing it with traditions and practices that are both religious and secular in nature. Popular customs include exchanging gifts, decorating Christmas trees, attending church, and sharing meals with family and friends.
In addition to the important remarks, guests sang Christmas songs and enjoyed a variety of Mediterranean cuisine.
