Gastronomy – The climatic diversity (tropical on the coast and semi-arid inland) directly influences the Northeastern cuisine

From the coastline of Pernambuco to Bahia, the influence of African cultures is most noticeable. This is because slaves lived here farming sugar cane.

In Alagoas, seafood is the most common dish due to the State’s diverse coastal lakes.

In Maranhão, Portuguese influence is stronger than in the other states, and spicy condiments, which are typical along the coast, are far less common.

In the Northeastern Sertão, the climate is excellent for curing meat. Sun cured beef is a popular meal, and the dishes themselves are made from roots.

Food associated with the Festa Junina (June Festival) is typical of the Northeast’s inland areas. As June is the month of the corn harvest, there are many local and traditional, sweet and savoury cakes made from corn.

Cordel Literature – is a type of popular poetry printed and distributed on small paper books. Typically illustrated with naïve ink prints using a process called xilogravura, Cordel gained its name in Portugal, where the little books were displayed, hung by cord lines, in small shops, markets and even on the street.

This form of literature came to Brazil in the 18 century and quickly became popular in the Northeast, where they continue to be made and sold in the streets today.

Festa Junina (June Festivities) – Although these festivals are celebrated in all four corners of Brazil in June, it is in the Northeast that this festival, which pays homage to the Catholic Saints John, Peter and Anthony, really brings the party to life! The Northeast is, in fact, the birthplace of the Festa Junina. Therefore the parties here are the most animated and attract more and more tourists. For the people of the Northeast, this festival is the most important of the year, even more so than Christmas.