Réveillon is the New Year's Eve celebration that fills Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana Beach with people wearing white.
In Brazil, réveillon refers to New Year's Eve festivities, and Rio's beach celebration is one of the world's largest. Millions of people may gather along Copacabana's waterfront for concerts, a midnight fireworks display, and offerings or ceremonies connected with Afro-Brazilian religious traditions.
White clothing is especially prominent because it is associated with peace and renewal. Many participants also make wishes, throw flowers into the sea, or honor Iemanjá, an orixá associated with the ocean in Candomblé and Umbanda traditions. Customs differ among individuals and communities.
The name is French in origin and is also used for New Year's Eve celebrations in other French-speaking or French-influenced settings. Rio's event should not be confused with Brazilian Carnival, which normally takes place later in the year before Lent.