Queenstown will come alive with Latin rhythms, dancing, colour and cuisine when the Brazilian community gets together for its first organised Christmas celebration tonight.
Percussionist-singer Jeferson and brother keyboardist-singer Anderson Ceo co-ordinated and will perform as their group, Made in Brasil, at the party in Revolver.
Good numbers were expected at the free entry event and it was open to all.
"We want them to feel what we feel when we play," Jeferson Ceo said.
"Just have fun and see everybody happy, dance a lot and make friends, all the best.
"If you don't know how to samba, somebody can teach you or you look to the side and see. It's not hard to dance the samba. It's more important you be happy and enjoy."
Mr Ceo said it long been their intention to introduce overseas Brazilians to each other and they had hosted popular parties in London before moving to Queenstown.
"We do old style of Brazilian music. The salsa-style forro, samba, up-tempo axe and the slower samba-style dance bagode. Brazilians want to be reminded of home, hear and speak Portuguese and enjoy music and dance."
Small chicken savoury bites called coxinha and the strong, sweet alcoholic drink known as caipiria would be sold at the bar.
The duo and other Brazilian acts have become mainstays on the Queenstown circuit and proved popular among Brazilians, residents and visitors alike.
The brothers played for a full house when they debuted in Revolver in November 2007 and more than 400 revellers attended their Queenstown Carnival Party last year.
The 2009 party was set for February 22.
Mr Ceo has lived and worked in Queenstown for almost two years with his ballet teacher wife Daniella. Anderson and his wife have also made the resort home.
"We guess we have near 2000 Brazilians just in Queenstown. Some come here to learn English, some like us come over just to try a different self in a safe place.
"We have a little rest and can relax in Queenstown. And it's beautiful. Kiwis are always nice to us."
The Brazilian Christmas Party runs from 10.30pm until 3am at Revolver, on Shotover St. Entry is free.
