The New Year’s Eve fireworks tradition on Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach is called Réveillon.
In Brazil, Réveillon refers to New Year’s Eve celebrations, and Rio’s Copacabana event is one of the largest and most recognisable. Huge crowds gather along the beach for concerts and a midnight fireworks display over the Atlantic Ocean. Many participants wear white, a custom associated with peace and renewal.
The celebration also reflects Afro-Brazilian and coastal traditions. Some people make offerings to or honour Iemanjá, a deity associated with the sea in Afro-Brazilian religious traditions, although practices vary among participants. Flowers and small boats may be placed on the water, subject to local rules and environmental concerns.
Réveillon is not the same as Carnival, which is a separate festival held before Lent. The Portuguese word is related to a late-night feast or celebration and is used in Brazil for the New Year period.