Thousands of residents gathered in Praça Brasil, in the Vila Santa Cecília district, to welcome 2026 in an evening of music, family-friendly entertainment and civic celebration. The traditional Réveillon da Paz transformed the square into a vibrant public space, offering free performances and a secure environment that drew families from across Volta Redonda and neighbouring municipalities.
Volta Redonda New Year celebration attracts large, diverse crowds
The event opened with a lively set by Jota Araújo, who warmed the audience and set the tone for the night. The main attraction was the acclaimed samba group Fundo de Quintal, whose performance of classic sambas from the Cacique de Ramos tradition moved fans of all ages. Attendees praised the quality and closeness of the show, with many describing it as a rare opportunity to see such established artists in an intimate public setting.
Local officials framed the Réveillon da Paz as both a cultural highlight and a demonstration of municipal commitment to inclusive public programming. Anderson de Souza, the municipal secretary of Culture, thanked partners Sesc-RJ and the Anita Mantuano Arts Foundation (Funarj) for supporting the free event and for sponsoring the Festival Gospel and the opening performance by Jota Araújo. “We celebrated the arrival of 2026 with a quality event for the whole family, entirely free and with full security,” he said.
Residents from several neighbourhoods attended the celebration. Carlos Henrique, who lives in the Eucaliptal area, said he attends the Réveillon da Paz whenever possible because it is close to home, safe and family-oriented. “Starting the year with lots of samba is special,” he said, reflecting the sentiment of many who crowded the plaza.
Visitors from nearby Barra Mansa also took part. Cláudia Adriele and her relatives described the programme as unforgettable, praising the opening act as a perfect warm-up and calling the Fondo de Quintal performance exceptional. For many, the proximity to their homes and the chance to see renowned artists up close were decisive factors in attending.
The Réveillon da Paz was the culmination of two days of programming that began on 30 December with a Festival Gospel. That earlier event featured eight notable acts from the evangelical music scene, including Samuel Messias, Adriano Gospel Funk, Mattos Nascimento, Samuel Miranda, Willian Nascimento, pastor Eloi Oliveira, Sai da Tenda and Kleber Lucas. The festival expanded the reach of the celebration and reinforced Praça Brasil’s role as a centre for community events throughout 2025.
Mayor Antonio Francisco Neto highlighted the plaza’s year-round use for civic and cultural activities, citing events such as the Arraiá da Cidadania, the city anniversary and the Month of Youth among the highlights of 2025. “We are extremely pleased to see thousands of families coming together with fun and safety. Happy 2026 to all residents who love our city,” he said.
Organisers said security and logistical arrangements were coordinated to ensure a smooth celebration, allowing attendees to focus on performances and family time. The success of the Réveillon da Paz reinforces Volta Redonda’s reputation for accessible public culture and demonstrates the city’s capacity to stage large-scale, free events that serve a broad cross-section of the community.
Key Takeaways:
- Volta Redonda New Year celebration brought thousands to Praça Brasil for free, family-friendly entertainment.
- Fundo de Quintal headlined the Réveillon da Paz following an opening set by Jota Araújo.
- Event included a two-day programme with a Festival Gospel and broad community participation.
- City officials emphasised safety, partnerships with Sesc-RJ and Funarj, and the plaza’s year-round cultural role.
