Universal Fraternization Day
Nationwide public holiday in Brazil · Confraternização Universal
Dates
| Year | Date | Weekday | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 1 January | Thursday | Nationwide |
| 2027 | 1 January | Friday | Nationwide |
Where it applies
Everywhere in Brazil.
Is it a day off?
Yes. It is an official public holiday, so most employees have the day off. Government offices, schools and many businesses are usually closed; shops, restaurants and public transport may keep reduced hours. Check local announcements for opening times.
Make it longer
Fri 1 Jan – Sun 3 Jan is a 3-day weekend with no leave needed.
Plan more breaks with the leave planner.
Typical weather in Brasília around 1 January: high 28°C (82°F), low 19°C (66°F), rain on 84% of days.
Averages for 2015–2024, 3 days either side of the date, for the area around Brasília. Past averages, not a forecast.
Forecast for Friday 1 January in Brasília: (MET Norway)
About Universal Fraternization Day
In Brazil, 1 January is officially called Confraternização Universal, Universal Fraternization Day. Besides marking the start of the new year, the name expresses a wish for peace and brotherhood among all peoples. The celebrations, known as Réveillon, take place on the night of 31 December.
Traditions
Many Brazilians wear white to welcome the new year, a custom associated with peace and good fortune. Large crowds gather on beaches for fireworks, most famously at Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro. Some people jump over seven waves at midnight or make offerings of flowers to Iemanjá, the sea deity of Afro-Brazilian religions.
Editorial summary by Public Holidays World. Dates on this page come from the data source; customs vary by region and family.
Coming up next in Brazil
Friday, 26 March 2027
More for Brazil
Holiday dates are for general information and can change. Official government announcements take precedence.