Rio de Janeiro's famous New Year's Eve fireworks display takes place at Copacabana Beach.
Copacabana's réveillon is one of Brazil's best-known public celebrations. Large crowds gather along the shoreline, while fireworks are launched from barges offshore and viewed from the beach and surrounding neighborhoods. Many attendees wear white clothing, a custom often associated with wishes for peace and good fortune.
The celebration blends Brazilian popular culture with traditions connected to Afro-Brazilian religions, including offerings made to Iemanjá, the sea goddess. Concerts and ceremonies extend the event beyond the midnight fireworks, making Copacabana a major destination for New Year's tourism.
Copacabana is sometimes confused with nearby Ipanema because both are famous Rio beaches. The internationally recognized New Year's fireworks and beach gathering, however, are specifically associated with Copacabana.