Réveillon is the Brazilian name commonly used for the New Year's Eve celebration, especially the festivities at Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana beach.
In Brazil, Réveillon commonly includes outdoor parties, concerts, fireworks, and midnight gatherings. Rio's Copacabana celebration is particularly famous for its beach crowds and fireworks launched over the Atlantic Ocean. Many participants wear white, a color associated with peace, although clothing customs and personal rituals vary.
Brazilian Réveillon also blends regional and religious traditions. At the coast, some people honor Iemanjá, the orixá associated with the sea in Afro-Brazilian religious traditions, by making offerings or flowers near the water. Other popular customs include jumping seven waves and making wishes, especially in coastal areas.
Réveillon is not the same event as Carnaval. Carnaval is a separate pre-Lenten festival whose dates change each year, while Réveillon marks the transition from December 31 to January 1. The French-derived word is also used in other countries for a festive New Year's meal or celebration.