All Saints' Day, known as Dia de Todos os Santos in Portugal, is celebrated annually on November 1st. This national holiday is a time for the Portuguese to honor the saints and martyrs of the Roman Catholic Church. The day is marked by attending special church services, lighting candles and placing flowers on the graves of deceased loved ones. It is a commendable day of reverence, reflection and remembrance in the country, and it's not uncommon to see churches and graveyards glowing with many lit candles.
The origins of All Saints' Day in Portugal stem from centuries-old Christian traditions, and the holiday is highly regarded throughout the country. It's a day when people are reminded of the eternal dimension of life and the example set by the saints. Portuguese families, on this day, get together and commemorate their loved ones who have passed away, praying for their souls and reflecting on the concept of life and death. Many Portuguese people spend the day visiting cemeteries, bringing flowers, candles, and sometimes food, in a quiet and serene homage.
Despite its solemn themes, All Saints' Day in Portugal isn't without celebration. The belief is that on this day, the spirits of the departed come to visit their families, and so some people will leave out candies and treats to welcome them. In some regions of Portugal, children also go door-to-door, asking for treats or small gifts in a tradition called Pão-por-Deus, similar to the American practice of trick or treating during Halloween. Thus, All Saints' Day in Portugal is a reverent, special, and sometimes even joyful occasion that brings families together in recognition of the cycle of life and death and the faithfulness of saints.