The Brazilian reception gathered around 350 distinguished guests, including government officials, business leaders, cultural figures, members of the diplomatic corps, and the Brazilian community. The evening combined high-level diplomacy with a rich cultural program that celebrated the 203rd anniversary of independance and Brazil’s heritage while highlighting  its global commitments.

H.E. Fernando Simas Magalhães, Ambassador of Brazil to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, warmly welcomed the guests, with special recognition for H.R.H. Prince Jaime de Bourbon de Parme, Climate Envoy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, whose presence underscored the event’s significance and included a keynote speech.
This year’s celebration highlighted Brazil’s commitment to sustainability and climate action, hosting in November the UN Climate Change Conference (COP-30) in the city of Belém do Pará, in the heartland of the Amazon. The Kurhaus in Scheveningen, overlooking the North Sea, served as a symbolic backdrop for discussions on shared responsibility in addressing climate challenges, including sea-level rise.

Ambassador Fernando Simas Magalhães underscored the strong bond between Brazil and the Netherlands, noting their shared vision for the future. A long history but also a forward-looking partnership that is growing ever closer. The recent Mercosur–EU Partnership Agreement was hailed as a milestone, strengthening collaboration in clean energy, open trade, and sustainability. Cultural, academic, and people-to-people exchanges further strengthen this relationship. For example, Rio de Janeiro welcomed 17% more Dutch visitors in early 2025 compared to the previous year, highlighting the expanding exchange between both societies. 

The evening featured a rich cultural program, with Brazilian diplomat Felipe Ferreira Marques fulfilling the role of master of ceremonies, including the Brazilian national anthem performed by soprano Carla Maffioletti (formerly a soloist with conductor André Rieu) and the Dutch national anthem performed by Femke Smit, Edison Prize 2024 (Best Vocalist), who has sung for former Queen Beatrix together with Roda da Holanda

Guests also enjoyed a curated selection of Brazilian wines and cuisine, supported by the Miolo Wine Group, highlighting the country’s growing international recognition in viticulture. Brazil’s commitment to sustainability was evident, with most vineyards in the main southern wine regions being rain-fed and life-cycle assessments guiding reductions in energy, water, and packaging impacts. Cutrale’s iconic orange juice added a taste of Brazil’s world-famous products. The evening also featured the renowned Brazilian music group Roda da Holanda.

The National Day reception celebrated Brazil’s culture, innovation, and leadership in climate action, reaffirming a strong, dynamic, and forward-looking partnership with the Netherlands.