Celebrating New Year in Brazil is witnessing one of the greatest cultural and emotional expressions of the country. At each turn, millions of people gather on beaches, squares and avenues to live a collective moment of hope and renewal.
The scene is striking: white clothes, warm hugs, fireworks reflected on the sea and music marking the arrival of the new cycle. Traditions such as jumping seven waves, offering flowers to Iemanjá and sharing dinner symbolize the mixture of faith and joy that defines this celebration.
More than just a party, the Brazilian Réveillon is an experience of union. No matter the city: in every corner of the country, the energy of the New Year is contagious and creates unforgettable memories for Brazilians and visitors.
Brasil ATM will show you what New Year in Brazil is like, with its traditions, destinations, costs and practical tips to experience the celebration in a unique way.
What are the traditions of New Year in Brazil?
New Year in Brazil is recognized worldwide for its unique traditions, which mix Catholic, African and popular influences. This cultural combination creates a New Year’s Eve full of symbolism, where each gesture has a special meaning.
More than a party, it is a collective ritual that reflects the spirituality and joy of the Brazilian people. From white clothes to a plentiful dinner, passing through sea rituals and offerings, each practice translates the desire for peace, prosperity and renewal.
Among the most remarkable traditions of New Year in Brazil are:
- Wearing white: symbol of peace and balance for the year that begins.
- Jumping seven waves: custom linked to African-based religions, asking for luck and protection.
- Offerings to Iemanjá: flowers and small boats launched into the sea as a sign of devotion.
- Eating lentils, pomegranate and grapes: foods that represent abundance and prosperity.
- Carrying money in the pocket: popular belief to attract wealth in the new year.
These rituals have crossed generations and help explain why New Year’s Eve in Brazil is considered one of the most special in the world.
Where to spend New Year in Brazil? Best destinations
Brazil offers experiences for all traveler profiles. See the main destinations for the New Year’s Eve:
| Destination | New Year style | Highlights |
| Rio de Janeiro | Beach and fireworks | Copacabana gathers millions of people with music and tradition. |
| São Paulo | Urban and cultural | Shows on Avenida Paulista, bars and nightclubs. |
| Salvador | Musical and vibrant | Extended party with Bahian music artists. |
| Florianópolis | Beach and party | Jurerê Internacional with exclusive parties. |
| Recife/Olinda | Cultural and religious | Popular celebrations and Afro-Brazilian rituals. |
| Fernando de Noronha | Exclusive | New Year’s Eve for a few, with luxury parties. |
Practical tips to choose:
- Want free and popular parties? → Go to Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo.
- Want music and contagious energy? → Choose Salvador.
- Prefer exclusivity and expensive parties? → Florianópolis or Noronha.
- Looking for cultural tradition? → Recife and Olinda.
How much does it cost to spend New Year in Brazil?
New Year in Brazil takes place in the peak of tourist high season, and this directly impacts prices. Hotels, airline tickets, private parties and even restaurants usually charge higher rates at this time, since demand is intense both from Brazilians and foreigners.
For this reason, planning ahead is essential. Booking accommodation months before New Year’s Eve can generate significant savings and guarantee better location options. For those who leave it to the last minute, costs can easily double.
| Category | Average price in big cities | Price in exclusive destinations |
| 3-star hotel | R$ 600 – R$ 900 per night | From R$ 2,000 |
| 4–5-star hotel | R$ 1,200 – R$ 3,000 per night | From R$ 5,000 |
| Open bar party | R$ 400 – R$ 1,500 | R$ 2,000 – R$ 5,000 |
| Dinner in restaurant | R$ 250 – R$ 600 | R$ 1,000+ |
Tip: book at least 6 months in advance, as prices soar closer to the date.
What is New Year like in Brazil’s big cities?
New Year in Brazil takes different formats in big cities, always with lots of parties, music and traditions. Each destination has its own identity: while Rio de Janeiro impresses with fireworks in Copacabana, São Paulo bets on shows on Avenida Paulista, Salvador mixes faith and axé music, and Florianópolis attracts young people looking for exclusive parties.
These capitals concentrate both the largest free public parties and high-end private events, receiving thousands of tourists from Brazil and abroad. Knowing these differences is essential to choose the destination that best matches your travel style and budget.
New Year in Rio de Janeiro
- Fireworks in Copacabana lasting an average of 15 minutes.
- Stages with free shows of Brazilian music.
- Strong religious traditions, with sea offerings.
New Year in São Paulo
- Free party on Avenida Paulista with famous artists.
- Restaurants and bars prepare special menus.
- Luxurious nightclubs in Itaim and Vila Olímpia.
New Year in Salvador
- Axé and Bahian music shows for several days.
- Democratic party, but also with exclusive options.
- Energy comparable to carnival.
New Year in Florianópolis
- Beira-Mar beach with fireworks.
- Private parties in Jurerê Internacional.
- Young and international audience.
Popular New Year rituals in Brazil: step by step
New Year in Brazil is not just a party, but also a moment full of symbolism. Over decades, Brazilians have turned New Year’s Eve into a true collective ritual of faith, hope and renewal.
Wearing white, jumping seven waves, eating lentils and making offerings to Iemanjá are customs that span generations and are still part of New Year’s Eve in various regions of the country. Each gesture has a meaning and reflects the desire to attract good energies for the new cycle.
To help those who will experience this, we have gathered below a simple step by step with the most traditional rituals of New Year in Brazil and what each one represents.
- Dress in white and choose colorful accessories according to your wishes (red for passion, yellow for money, green for health, blue for serenity).
- Prepare dinner with lentils, pomegranate and grapes.
- At midnight, make wishes holding a glass or visualizing desires.
- On the beach, jump seven waves and give thanks for life.
- Give flowers to Iemanjá or throw symbolic offerings into the sea.
New Year in Brazil x New Year in other countries
New Year in Brazil stands out on the world stage for its collective energy, religious traditions and popular seaside parties.
The Brazilian New Year’s Eve is different from other famous destinations, such as New York, Tokyo or Sydney, where the celebration follows more urban or family customs.
Comparing New Year in Brazil with other countries helps to understand what makes the Brazilian experience so unique: here, faith and party walk together.
Next, Brasil ATM presents a comparison of how different cultures welcome the new year, highlighting what brings them closer and what differentiates each of these celebrations.
| Country | What New Year is like | Differences from Brazil |
| Brazil | Beach, rituals, fireworks, live music | Mixture of faith, music and collective celebration. |
| United States | Times Square in New York, countdown | More urban, less spiritual. |
| Japan | O-shogatsu with family rituals and temples | More intimate and traditional. |
| Australia | Fireworks at Sydney Harbour | No religious rituals, focus on visual spectacle. |
Tips for foreign tourists who want to spend New Year in Brazil
- Plan accommodation in advance: hotels sell out quickly in tourist cities.
- Use public transport or apps: parking can be impossible at big parties.
- Bring light clothes: even at New Year’s Eve, the Brazilian summer is hot.
- Participate in rituals: Brazilians like to share traditions.
- Take care of personal belongings: crowd events require extra attention.
Conclusion – Is it worth spending New Year in Brazil?
Definitely yes. New Year in Brazil is an unforgettable experience that combines spirituality, popular celebration, music and cultural traditions.
Whether on a crowded beach like Copacabana, in exclusive parties in Florianópolis, or in cultural rituals in Salvador, New Year’s Eve in the country offers options for all traveler profiles.
If you want to live a unique New Year’s Eve, start planning your trip now. Book accommodation in advance, choose the destination that best matches you and get ready to celebrate life in grand style in Brazil.
Where to withdraw money from ATM24h machines in Brazil
To make the most of your trip through Brazil, carry cash. This ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience. In some places, it’s essential for eating, getting around, paying for entrance to attractions, etc.
See in the table below some ATM24h locations in the regions mentioned in this article:
| Where | Location |
| Guarulhos Airport – São Paulo | See all locations |
| Congonhas Airport – São Paulo | See all locations |
| Curitiba Airport | See all locations |
| Brasília Airport | See all locations |
| Florianópolis Airport | See all locations |
Discover Brasil ATM
At Brasil ATM, we see Brazil as a place full of unique beauty and fascinating culture. Our portal, supported by the global ATM24h brand, shows our love for Brazil. We want to inspire tourists to explore its wonders safely and informed.
We provide accurate, up-to-date, and inspiring information in three languages. That way, you have everything you need to plan your trip with confidence. We offer everything for travelers—travel guides, detailed itineraries, and planning tips.
We want to create memories that last. We’ll show you the natural and cultural wonders of Brazil. Explore famous destinations like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Also, discover hidden gems like Lençóis Maranhenses and Fernando de Noronha. We’re here to help you make the most of your trip.
Enjoyed this article? Read more about Brazil:
- Christmas in Brazil: Traditions, weather, and how to enjoy the season
- Taxes in Brazil for foreigners – How much does it cost to live and invest in the country?
- Airports in Brazil – Complete guide with tips, structure, and the country’s main terminals
- Winter in Brazil – Weather, where to go, and what to see in each region
Frequently asked questions about New Year in Brazil
New Year in Brazil is celebrated with fireworks, free shows, religious rituals and crowds dressed in white on beaches and cities. Plan your New Year’s Eve with Brasil ATM.
Wearing white, jumping seven waves, eating lentils and making offerings to Iemanjá are among the most followed rituals. Discover the meaning of each one at Brasil ATM.
The most famous destinations are Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, São Paulo, Florianópolis, Recife and Fernando de Noronha. See which one suits you best at Brasil ATM.
As it is high season, hotels and parties are expensive: from R$ 600 in simple accommodations to R$ 5,000 in exclusive destinations. See full comparisons at Brasil ATM.
Yes, as long as you avoid showing valuables and use reliable transport. See practical tips to enjoy safely at Brasil ATM.
By booking in advance, participating in rituals and bringing light clothes for the summer. Discover everything you need to travel well with Brasil ATM.
The Copacabana Réveillon, in Rio de Janeiro, gathers millions of people and unforgettable fireworks. See why it is unmissable at Brasil ATM.
In Brazil, faith and party mix with crowded beaches and rituals; in countries like USA or Japan, New Year’s Eve is more urban or family-oriented. Compare cultures at Brasil ATM.
