If you were on Copacabana Beach for New Year’s Eve in the 80s or 90s, you probably remember the spectacular fireworks cascade that flowed down the façade of the Meridien Hotel. This iconic display was one of the hallmarks of Rio’s New Year celebrations, adding an extra touch of magic to an already vibrant night. With December approaching, it’s the perfect time to reminisce about this cherished tradition that once lit up Copacabana.
The Meridien Hotel, now known as the Hilton Rio de Janeiro Copacabana, opened its doors in 1975 and quickly became a luxury five-star destination in the city. Situated at the corner of Avenida Atlântica and Avenida Princesa Isabel, in the Leme neighborhood of Zona Sul, this magnificent 39-story building is still the tallest in the Copacabana area. Its construction was made possible through a special agreement with the government of the then-State of Guanabara, which allowed the building to exceed the height limit on the condition that it would always remain a hotel.
At midnight on New Year’s Eve, the hotel would come alive with a dazzling display of fireworks, cascading from its rooftop like a shimmering waterfall. This became a must-see spectacle, with thousands gathering on the sands of Copacabana to witness it. The cascade, along with the larger fireworks display over the beach, embodied the spirit of Rio’s New Year’s celebrations.
While this tradition ended in the early 2000s when the Meridien changed ownership and became the Hilton, the hotel continues to be one of the best spots to ring in the New Year. Its rooftop still offers stunning views of Copacabana’s midnight fireworks, preserving that magical vibe that Rio’s New Year’s Eve is known for.
Though the fireworks cascade is now just a fond memory, it remains a nostalgic part of Rio’s rich history. It’s a reminder of how the city’s traditions have evolved while continuing to captivate new generations.
So, if you’re planning to spend New Year’s Eve on Copacabana Beach this year, remember this iconic chapter and get ready to create your own unforgettable moments in Rio’s most vibrant neighborhood.
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Hilton Copacabana
📍 Address: Avenida Atlântica, 1020 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro
📱 Instagram: @hiltoncopacabana
