Rio de Janeiro hosts the large New Year's Eve celebration at Copacabana Beach.
Known in Brazil as Réveillon, the event draws huge crowds to the beach in Rio de Janeiro. Celebrations commonly feature live music, people dressed in white, religious and cultural offerings, and a major fireworks display launched over the Atlantic Ocean. The exact program and crowd size can change from year to year.
Copacabana’s shoreline provides a broad public setting for the celebration, while boats offshore help create the visual effect of fireworks spread across the water. Wearing white is widely associated with peace and renewal, although people may also choose colors believed to symbolize wishes such as prosperity or love.
Brazilian New Year customs blend secular festivities with traditions influenced by Afro-Brazilian religions, including offerings to Iemanjá, a sea-associated deity honored by many participants. Réveillon is celebrated throughout Brazil, not only in Rio, but Rio’s Copacabana event has become its most internationally recognizable example.