New Year’s in Brazil – festivities and traditions

Every year, millions of people gather at one of the world’s most famous destinations to celebrate New Year’s Eve – Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro. Peak summer time – Brazil is the perfect destination for an all night beach party! There isn’t a single aspect of that will disappoint; the city is alive with music, dancing, and 16 uninterrupted minutes fireworks that dazzle the skies.

While the nightlife is the highlight of the festivities, it’s not the whole story. The New Year is also a time of renewal and cleansing in Brazilian culture. New Year’s celebrations are mixed with traditions of African and Indian descent – blending one of the world’s biggest parties with a historically and culturally rich experience. For example, it’s tradition to dress in all white – a color that symbolizes good luck and peace for the future. After midnight, people run into the water, jump seven waves and throw white flowers into the sea – an offering to Yemanjá (goddess of the ocean) in the hopes that she will grant their wishes for the coming year.

It’s a pretty amazing way to ring in the New Year. Check out AIB’s Unforgettable Rio tour and start planning your trip!