New Year's Eve is one of Rio de Janeiro's most celebrated occasions. The popularity is only second to Carnival! It attracts people from all over the world, and Brazilians from all States. The festivities are concentrated around Copacabana Beach. It is a party for over two million people! The idea is sharing good waves with strangers and friends so that the year starts on the right foot for everyone!

This is a very welcoming event, and you don't have to pay anything for it. There are three stages set along the beach, with live music shows. This means at least one major attraction and another group or star to open the show.

Both street lanes are closed to traffic, there are sidewalks and the center island for you to stay. And of course there's the beach itself! If you are lucky maybe a friend who lives on Ave. Atlantica for a private party with a view. If you're rich you can afford to join one of the all-inclusive parties promoted by luxury beach side hotels. Prices may be a little steep for the ordinary traveler.

But quite honestly chances are you do not want to stand indoors during the fireworks. Exchanging happy new year wishes with people you've never met before, share the same moment and even let the sea water bathe your feet while you make your promises is all part of the fun.

As to parties, even if they are along the beach they will give you a bracelet to get back in. Don't worry. And we keep close connections to everyone in the Rio de Janeiro night life scene, so you will have as much information as any local who knows the right people. Big parties actually start a few days ahead!

Getting Ready for the Main Event

The very first step, if you do not live in Rio, is check if you can find air tickets for the dates you need. They tend to sell out fast, and prices may be higher. Even in the case of a domestic flight.

Once you have confirmed tickets, the next step is finding a place to stay. This was much harder to do a few years ago, but now you can get instant confirmations with the guarantee of the lowest rate. Again rates may be higher and restrictions may apply. It is high season, all properties mark up their rates. It is not the brightest idea to arrive without a confirmed booking, and trust on the taxi driver from the airport.

Keep an eye for last-minute openings and offers. Usually New Year's bookings are final but hotels always keep some rooms in their sleeves for special clients. If they do not confirm the room ends up in one of the major booking websites.

Short-term rentals are also an option, and even a few socialites who live along the beach take vacations and put their luxury apartments in this market. There are also more modest studio or one-bedroom apartments, that can accommodate as many as four people. Ideally try to share your lodging with friends, prices are high.

Traditions, things to do and see

In Brazil we use the French term Reveillon, meaning arrival. The fireworks festival starts at midnight, with the turning of the year. The fireworks stations are located on boats anchored at a safe distance from the beach. They are surrounded by luxury cruise ships. They last about 15-20 minutes..

This is a beach party and you don't want to ruin your Louboutin's or your best dress shoes. Yet you want to keep your feet protected, as you may have to do some walking. Some people even go in flip-flops, at their own risk. Glass bottles are not allowed but we hear champagne popping.

Following African-Brazilian traditions most people dress in white and in lighter colors for good luck. You may add accessories in other colors: red is good to attract romance, yellow is for prosperity, green for good health, and so on. Black is not the right color to wear, but we doubt Coco Chanel would give it a second thought..

Festivities got so big that now the offerings by followers of Candomblé happen one night ahead. They bring along a large statue of Yemanjá, and carry it on a wooden boat into the sea. Throwing flowers in the sea also brings good luck.

Transportation, safety, and more

This is a family party, children and even babies come along with their parents. It is also a very romantic event. Couples are always a part of the scene, regardless of gender. Diversity and tolerance is one of the reasons people fall in love with Rio.

Regardless of the ridiculous number of attendees very few accidents happen. Someone may drink a bit too much, other people are naturally more stressed than others. Chances are if you are not looking for trouble it will not find you. Even pickpockets seem to take a break this night. But of course you're still in a big city so be streetwise.

As the beach lanes of Ave. Atlantica are closed to cars, traffic runs on Ave. Nossa Senhora de Copacabana, the main street. Private cars are not allowed - only buses and taxis. So, unless you are walking, this is basically how you get there. Keep in mind traffic may be very slow, arrive early if you can.

The subway is also an excellent alternative if you're near one of the stations. Yet there's only one small but - you have to buy tickets ahead of time. They will sell out before December 31. Arrive early or ask for help for a friend in town, if possible.

Is there anything to watch?

Where's the Party?

New Year's Party scene is pumping. Really big parties happen around New Year's. If you are already in town, you have already been to some of them. We publish the selection overnight, so you can never go wrong. There's a newsfeed below, or visit Rio Night Life by www.ipanema.com.

The major action started on December 28 and until January 4 there are big events happening. On December 31st you want to be at Copacabana Beach. This is an event that happens in the open air, completely free of charge, and there is nothing like the good wave boost you get there.

If you intend to watch shows, choose your stage and enjoy. The listing is below. The lights on the main stage by Muti Randolph are an attraction apart! Some people take of their shoes and stay by the water, on the sand, the sidewalks and even on the street.

Most hotels along the beach have all-inclusive parties with a buffet and drinks. Prices are steep so choose wisely. You may alternatively Watch the fireworks, wait after they are finished to avoid the people jam. And then head to a club of your choice.

There are parties everywhere from Santa Teresa to Barra. But if already are in Copacabana you may want to pick out something within a walking distance. Prices are much more affordable, and attractions may include anything from first-line DJ's to live music. Rio caters to all tastes including the LGBTQ community. You will feel welcome. Bookmark this page or join us at Facebook!