Brazilians are celebrating Halloween more than ever. Although the tradition has never been part of Brazilian culture, in recent decades there has been a sort of “cultural embedding” of Halloween in Brazil. On October 31, children go to school dressed in spooky costumes, adults throw macabre-themed parties, and neighbors hand out candy.
The Brazilian population came into contact with Halloween through movies, TV series, and other foreign cultural products, mainly from the United States. Today, in the age 
of social media, the quest for the “American Way of life” has become even more evident.
October 31 is Saci-Pererê Day in Brazil
Halloween has no relation to Brazilian traditions and cultural formation, and for this reason, in 2003, a bill was introduced in the Brazilian Congress to make October 31 the official day of celebration for Saci-Pererê – one of the most well-known characters in national folklore. According to the legislators behind the proposal, there was a perception that more and more elementary schools were celebrating Halloween in the North American model at the expense of Brazil’s rich folklore; so why not promote a reflection on the role of national culture?
In 2004, the date was officially recognized in the State of São Paulo and, in 2010, across the entire country. Since then, Saci-Pererê Day has served as an incentive for Brazilians to learn about and value their culture.
But who is Saci-Pererê?
Saci-Pererê is a mischievous one-legged boy who smokes a pipe and wears a red cap that grants him magical powers. It is said that he lives in the forest, where he loves to play tricks on people and animals. He is known for stealing horses, confusing travelers, and making animals behave strangely. He is also said to be able to control the wind and is often depicted riding a whirlwind.
Despite his mischievous nature, Saci-Pererê is not considered a malevolent creature. In fact, he is sometimes seen as a protector of the forest and its inhabitants. It is also said that he can grant wishes to those who are kind to him.
There are many different stories about Saci-Pererê, and his origins are somewhat obscure. Some believe he is a character from Brazilian indigenous mythology, while others think he was created by African slaves brought to Brazil.
One of the most popular stories about Saci-Pererê tells how he lost his leg. According to the tale, Saci-Pererê was a skilled capoeira fighter. One day, he was challenged to a fight by a man who claimed to be the devil. Saci-Pererê lost the fight, and the devil cut off his leg.
Despite losing his leg, Saci-Pererê continued to play tricks on people and animals. He 
is said to be immortal, and it is still believed that he lives in the forests of Brazil to this day.
What made Saci-Pererê so famous?
In 1918, Monteiro Lobato published a book called Saci-Pererê: Resultado de um Inquérito (Saci-Pererê: Result of an Inquiry), in which he presented a compilation of Sacis collected from across the country by mail. There were many variations and descriptions.
He was so fond of Saci-Pererê that he included him as a character in Sítio do Pica-Pau Amarelo (The Yellow Woodpecker Ranch), released in 1920, among other characters from Brazilian folklore.
Although Saci-Pererê was not one of the main protagonists of the chronicles, he played a special role causing mischief, playing tricks, and much more.
Saci-Pererê is an important part of Brazilian culture. He is a reminder of the country’s rich and diverse heritage. He is also a symbol of the Brazilian people’s sense of humor and their ability to overcome challenges.