pyrotechnics!

On New Year’s Eve, or réveillon, as it is known in Brazil, people wear white: freshly laundered, neatly pressed. They are worn so that one can start the new year in a pure and clean fashion. In many parts of Brazil, the new year is also an auspicious day of Yemanja, the Orixá goddess of the sea, who is celebrated in the new year with flowers and little boats with candles set adrift into the sea.

Easily the most famous New Year celebration is in Rio de Janeiro. I myself have yet to pass a new year’s celebration or virada do ano (turning of the year) in Rio de Janeiro. So… while I may know the custom of young bohemians (moi) and cool cat brasileiros (friends and girlfriends) when they (ahem, we) go to a tropical beach town in the Northeast of Brazil, I had to do some research to see what exactly the New Year’s Eve game is in Rio de Janeiro.

The famous party in Rio on new year’s is at Copacabana beach. This year at the worlds biggest beach party, the city expects some 2 million people. A huge fireworks show is planned to last 15 minutes. The fireworks extravaganza, much like the carnival floats carry themes.

The lowdown on NYE 2011 Rio de Janeiro (from GoBrazil):

Earlier on in the evening before the party gets into full swing, people will be flocking to the beaches and waterfronts all around the city, and indeed the whole country, to throw flowers into the ocean for Mamãe or mother Yemanja, the Orixa Goddess of the sea. The flowers are for blessings. Seven ritual jumps over seven small waves ensures good luck in the coming year.

flowers in the sea for Yemanja

For those into a more alternative beach réveillon party in Rio should head to the hip Barra da Tijuca Beach. A special set of Brazilian and international DJs are going to please the fans of different types of music. Most beaches in the city will have parties, bands and djs to entertain the people. Best thing of all is that all the events are free, but some planning is required as transport will be a nightmare with taxis charging extra, and streets closed off. One thing to remember, it is forbidden to bring any kind of glass – the only exception will be made for champagne. I love that, only in Brazil!

Happy New Year to all… Feliz Ano Novo, Muita Paz Muita Luz!!!

Alex Bordokas

flores pra Mamãe Yemanja