Brazilian Americans are among the USA's newer immigrant groups -- and with their exciting festivals, rousing music, and infectious enthusiasm, they seem to also be among the most vivacious. Still, don't underestimate Brazilian Americans as mere party animals. They are more likely than the general U.S. public to be college educated, more likely to start and operate a small business, and have been credited with the economic turn-around of at least one New England former mill town. Brazilian Americans are well worth getting to know, and there are lots of fun ways to do so.
Looking for a place to try a hearty bowl of moqueca, pick up some Havianas, or hear the sultry sounds of a Samba drifting from a local shop? In the several neighborhoods that many Brazilian Americans call home, you can do all that and more. To find NYC's designated Little Brazil, you don't even have to leave the beaten track; the trendy enclave actually edges Times Square. For a homier feel, great choices include the popular Brazilian neighborhoods in Astoria, New York; Newark, New Jersey; Miami, Florida; Los Angeles, California; San Francisco, California; Chicago, Illinois; and the Boston, Massachusetts area.
These delightful annual Brazilian festivals are among the best!
