Réveillon is the name of Brazil’s New Year’s Eve celebration, especially Rio de Janeiro’s festivities.
In Rio, the largest public gathering traditionally takes place on Copacabana Beach. Millions of people have attended major editions, where concerts, fireworks, and celebrations continue around midnight. Many participants wear white, a custom commonly associated with peace and renewal, while some also use colors linked to wishes such as love, prosperity, or health.
A major part of the Rio tradition is honoring Iemanjá, an Afro-Brazilian deity associated with the sea in Candomblé and Umbanda practices. Participants may place flowers or offerings in the water, although environmental rules and official regulations apply. Some people also jump seven waves, a ritual connected with requests and blessings.
The word réveillon comes from French and is used in Portuguese-speaking contexts for New Year’s Eve celebrations or meals. It is not the name of Brazil’s Carnival. Carnival is a separate pre-Lenten festival, while Réveillon takes place on December 31 and January 1.