| In Brazil, The Ocean Calls on New Year’s Eve |  | | | As 2023 approaches, we’re turning to our regions to share some of the unique New Year’s traditions they observe to help ensure a wonderful year ahead. Our first stop is Brazil, where the parties are bigger, the fireworks more dramatic and the festivities typically continue past sunrise.
In Brazil, the New Year is about more than just raucous celebrations, and magnificent fireworks displays everywhere, particularly on Copacabana beach. There are a few sacrosanct traditions that Brazilians follow as they offer each other good wishes, “Ano novo, vida nova.” New year, new life.
On New Year’s Eve, you’ll find many Brazilians dressed in white, to beckon a year of peace and spiritual protection.
You may also find Brazilians flocking to the sea, not just because that’s where the best parties are found, but also to make their offerings to Iemanjá, the protectress of the oceans – according to followers of Candomblé and Umbanda, two Afro-Brazilian religions. Believers send white flowers into the sea – gifts for the mother of the ocean.
You’ll also find Brazilians wading into the water to jump seven waves. Each jump is accompanied by a private wish or expression of gratitude. There’s one key rule Brazilians keep in mind: never turn your back on the sea, even when making your way back to shore. | |
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