Brazil’s largest crochet Christmas tree unveiled in Santa Catarina

Installed in Rodeio (SC), a 12-meter-tall crochet tree celebrates Italian heritage and highlights the power of collective craftsmanship.

The city of Rodeio, in Santa Catarina’s Vale do Itajaí region, is celebrating Christmas with the unveiling of Brazil’s largest crochet Christmas tree. Standing 12 meters tall and 4 meters wide, the tree was installed in front of São Francisco de Assis Church and has quickly become one of the state’s most anticipated holiday attractions. The project used 4,000 crochet squares crafted with support from Círculo, Latin America’s leading yarn manufacturer.

Tradition and art come together

The structure was assembled using a crane to stack and connect the crochet-covered blocks. Its official inauguration takes place on November 15, featuring a blessing, local authorities, and a choir performance. A crochet nativity scene displayed inside the church complements the outdoor decor, blending craftsmanship, faith, and community spirit.

The initiative emphasizes handicraft as a cultural expression and a way to preserve local identity, turning public space into a living showcase of Rodeio’s heritage.

“Crochet Square Christmas Tree” Project

Conceived by Mirela Maria Moreto Moser, the project was inspired by a similar creation in Italy and celebrates 150 years of Italian immigration in Rodeio. The town, founded by Trentino settlers, is recognized as the Trentino Capital of Santa Catarina and preserves the local Trentino dialect as part of its intangible heritage.

About 80 artisans met daily at the Cristo Rei Parish Hall to create the 4,000 crochet squares using 1,000 skeins of Mollet yarn donated by Círculo. The acrylic yarn ensures vivid colors and durability even in outdoor conditions.

“We believe in the transformative power of craftsmanship and its ability to connect people, stories, and traditions. This project reinforces our commitment to culture and social impact,” says Osni de Oliveira Junior, CEO of Círculo.

From art to solidarity

After the exhibition period, all 4,000 crochet squares will be cleaned and transformed into blankets to be donated to local institutions, such as nursing homes and social organizations. The gesture extends the project’s social mission, combining art and compassion.

“The crochet tree is more than a collective artwork — it represents unity and cultural pride. Seeing Rodeio become a national reference fills us with joy,” says executive producer Richard Siqueira Cortes.

Holiday program

The tree and nativity display will remain open to the public until January 15, from Friday to Sunday. Special events will feature concerts and performances, including Coral Valsella (Italy) on November 11, Coral Circolo Trentino (Nov 22), Allora Brasil (Nov 29), Simpatici Italiani (Dec 6), and Santa Luzia (Dec 13), with a children’s choir and Christmas walk. On December 20, Santa Claus will arrive accompanied by the Banda de Natal Bah.