The French name for a festive New Year’s Eve dinner or party is réveillon.
A réveillon is a long, celebratory meal or gathering held on the evening before a major Christian feast, especially Christmas or New Year’s Day. In France, le réveillon de la Saint-Sylvestre refers specifically to the New Year’s Eve celebration. It may include several courses, champagne, seafood, desserts, music, and socializing that continues past midnight.
The term comes from the French verb réveiller, meaning “to awaken,” reflecting the late-night character of the meal. The same word can describe the Christmas Eve feast, so context is important when distinguishing the two occasions.
Réveillon is not the name of one mandatory menu. Traditions vary by household, region, and restaurant, and modern celebrations may be formal dinners or informal parties. It should also not be confused with Bastille Day, France’s national celebration in July.