The Brazilian name for the New Year’s Eve celebration associated with Copacabana beach is Réveillon.
In Brazil, Réveillon refers to New Year’s Eve celebrations, especially the large public festivities held in coastal cities. Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana celebration is internationally famous for its beach crowds, concerts, fireworks, and midnight rituals. The word comes from the French réveillon, a late-night festive meal or celebration.
Many Brazilian participants wear white clothing, a custom commonly connected with peace and renewal. Some also make offerings or tributes to Iemanjá, a sea-associated figure in Afro-Brazilian religious traditions, often by bringing flowers to the water. Practices vary among communities and are not identical for every attendee.
Réveillon is not the same as Carnival. Carnival is a separate festival season, usually held before Lent and known for parades, samba, and elaborate costumes. Copacabana’s New Year’s Eve fireworks are one part of Rio’s Réveillon, but the term can describe celebrations throughout Brazil.