Réveillon is the Brazilian New Year's Eve event whose name comes from the French word réveillon, referring to a late-evening meal or celebration.
In Brazil, Réveillon commonly means the festivities of December 31 and the early hours of January 1. The word entered Portuguese usage through French cultural influence, but Brazilian celebrations developed their own distinctive forms, especially beach gatherings, concerts, fireworks, and white clothing.
Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana celebration is the best-known example, yet Réveillon takes place throughout Brazil. Coastal cities often combine fireworks with music and large public crowds, while families and private groups may mark the night with dinners and religious or symbolic rituals.
Réveillon should not be confused with Carnival. Carnival is a separate festival season, strongly associated with samba and pre-Lenten traditions, whereas Réveillon marks the civil calendar's transition to a new year.