Brazil traditionally celebrates New Year's Eve with a large fireworks display over Copacabana Beach.
The celebration is held in Rio de Janeiro, where Copacabana Beach becomes the setting for one of the world’s largest New Year gatherings. Fireworks are launched from barges offshore, allowing the display to be seen along the beach and waterfront. Concerts and large crowds form part of the celebration.
Many attendees wear white, a color associated with peace and renewal, although clothing customs vary. Some participants also honor Afro-Brazilian religious traditions by making offerings to Iemanjá, a sea-associated deity, or by going to the shoreline for ceremonies.
The event is often mistakenly described as taking place on Rio’s Ipanema Beach, another famous beach in the same city. Copacabana is the specific beach associated with the major New Year’s Eve gathering and offshore fireworks.