Free New Year’s Eve on Paulista, silent fireworks and Christmas lights turn São Paulo into a prime year-end destination.
New Year’s Eve on Paulista with 14 hours of concerts
The New Year’s Eve celebration on Avenida Paulista is already a São Paulo tradition. For the turn from 2025 to 2026, the city is planning an even more special party, with 14 hours of free concerts organized by the Municipal Government, starting at 2 p.m. on December 31.
The line-up features major Brazilian artists such as Simone Mendes, Ana Castela, Maiara & Maraisa, Belo, João Gomes and Latino. Religious performers Frei Gilson and Father Marcelo Rossi also join the event, adding even more musical diversity to the stage.
Midnight will be celebrated with a 15-minute show of the largest silent fireworks display ever held in São Paulo. In this way, the city combines visual impact with greater comfort for animals, children and people sensitive to noise.
Historic São Silvestre race completes the celebration
On the same date, São Paulo hosts the landmark 100th edition of the São Silvestre International Race. The event will gather 55,000 runners and use Avenida Paulista as both the start and finish line, reinforcing the avenue as a central stage for year-end festivities.
Visitors can enjoy both the traditional road race and the New Year’s Eve concerts. Thus, the area turns into a large open-air arena, bringing together sports, music and celebration in the heart of the city.
Christmas Lights 2025 brings free attractions
Beyond New Year’s Eve, São Paulo stands out for its wide range of Christmas attractions spread across the city. The Christmas Lights 2025 program offers extensive and free activities until January 6, inviting families and tourists to explore the city.
The initiative includes themed lighting on major avenues and landmarks, as well as projection mapping on historic buildings. Visitors can also enjoy an ice skating rink, decorated buses, interactive Christmas sets and many other experiences.
Paulista, Ibirapuera Park and Christmas Village
On Avenida Paulista, 290 arches of lights form a continuous tunnel that transforms the avenue at night. There is also a Christmas gateway, special lighting in Parque Trianon and cultural performances under the iconic MASP building.
Other highlights include Christmas at Ibirapuera Park, featuring its iconic 57-meter Christmas tree, and the São Paulo Christmas Village at Parque Villa-Lobos. This themed area covers 24,000 square meters with more than 30 attractions, combining entertainment, food and festive décor.
Where to stay to enjoy São Paulo’s year-end
Those planning to enjoy Christmas and New Year’s Eve in São Paulo will find many accommodation options in strategic locations. Some hotels stand out for their easy access to Paulista, Ibirapuera and other key attractions.
Nikkey Palace Hotel: culture in Liberdade district
Located in the popular Liberdade neighborhood, the Nikkey Palace Hotel is ideal for guests seeking comfort and cultural immersion. It sits just minutes from the subway and offers easy access to areas such as Paulista Avenue and Ibirapuera Park.
The hotel features a restaurant serving Brazilian and Asian cuisine, a favorite among guests and visitors. In addition, it offers a spa, coffee shop, game room with state-of-the-art equipment and attentive service.
Rooms are cozy and well equipped, providing a relaxing stay after a full day exploring the city. As a result, Nikkey Palace becomes a solid choice for year-end stays in São Paulo.
Summit Suites Hotel Paulista: mobility and convenience
The Summit Suites Hotel Paulista is a great option for travelers who value mobility and convenience. Close to Avenida Paulista and 23 de Maio Avenue, it allows quick access to attractions such as Ibirapuera Park and the MASP museum.
The hotel offers modern, comfortable rooms, some with panoramic views of the city from the higher floors. Guests also benefit from a full breakfast, free Wi-Fi and services designed for a calm, pleasant stay.
WZ Hotel Jardins: design hotel near Paulista
Situated near Avenida Paulista and just a few meters from Oscar Freire subway station, the WZ Hotel Jardins enjoys one of São Paulo’s most prestigious addresses. It offers comfortable, well-equipped rooms, a contemporary restaurant and an inviting bar.
The property provides free Wi-Fi and on-site parking. Its architecture and interiors feature striking design and highly photogenic spaces, including the iconic colorful façade that lights up at night and has received international recognition.