Réveillon is the name commonly used for New Year’s Eve celebrations in Brazil and other Portuguese-speaking cultures.
In Brazil, Réveillon generally means the festivities surrounding the change from December 31 to January 1. The word came into Portuguese through French, where réveillon originally referred to a late-night meal or celebration. In modern Brazilian usage, it can describe private parties, public concerts, religious customs, and large beach gatherings.
Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Réveillon is the most internationally recognizable example. Other Brazilian cities hold their own events, often combining music, fireworks, food, and regional traditions. Wearing white is especially common, symbolizing hopes for peace in the coming year.
Réveillon is not the name of Brazil’s Carnival. Carnival takes place later and has different historical and cultural roots. The two celebrations can both feature music and large crowds, which sometimes causes confusion outside Portuguese-speaking countries.