What is the traditional name for New Year's Eve in many French-speaking regions?

Saint-Sylvestre is the traditional name for New Year's Eve in many French-speaking regions.

The name refers to Saint Sylvester I, a fourth-century bishop of Rome whose feast day falls on December 31. In French usage, réveillon de la Saint-Sylvestre describes the festive meal or gathering held on New Year's Eve. The expression is especially common in France and other parts of the Francophone world.

The celebration itself can include a long dinner, dancing, champagne, public fireworks, and midnight greetings. Terminology varies by region: some speakers simply say New Year's Eve, while others use Saint-Sylvestre to identify the date or the evening's festivities.

Saint-Sylvestre is not the same as Saint Nicholas Day, which is associated with December 6 in many European traditions. It is also distinct from Chandeleur and Mardi Gras, both of which occur at different times of the year. The name is a calendar reference that became a cultural label for the evening.