São Paulo is ready to welcome what organisers expect will be one of the largest New Year gatherings in Brazil. The traditional Réveillon on Avenida Paulista is set to draw as many as two million people as the city marks the turn of the year, and transport and safety teams have put measures in place to manage the influx.
São Paulo New Year celebrations bring extended metro services
To accommodate the crowds, the metro will run a 24-hour service for key stations near Avenida Paulista. Paraíso, Brigadeiro and Trianon-Masp, on Line 2 (Green), will remain open for both boarding and alighting throughout the night. Other stations across the network will allow boarding until 02:00 and will continue to accept passengers leaving the system after that time.
Authorities said the extended service is intended to spread arrivals and departures and to reduce pressure on surface transport. Officials urged attendees to plan journeys in advance, to favour public transport where possible, and to be patient during peak flows.
Public safety measures have also been reinforced. Organisers will stage up to 14 hours of free live performances along Avenida Paulista, drawing a broad programme of music and entertainment aimed at families and visitors. Security patrols and medical teams will operate across the area, and organisers have highlighted simple rules to help maintain safety and order.
For security reasons, entry with glass bottles or pointed objects will not be permitted. Bag checks and controlled entry points will be in place in some locations. Spectators were asked to respect staff instructions and to seek assistance from uniformed personnel if they need help.
City authorities have coordinated with transport operators to ensure a rapid response to incidents and to keep the event moving. In previous years Avenida Paulista has hosted large public celebrations, and lessons from those operations have informed this year’s plan, with more emphasis on crowd flow and access to emergency services.
Local businesses, hotels and cultural venues along the avenue are preparing for high visitor numbers. Many establishments will extend opening hours and increase staff to serve the influx. Police and municipal teams will monitor traffic routes to and from the city centre to ease movement for those arriving from other parts of São Paulo and neighbouring municipalities.
Residents and visitors who do not intend to attend the main celebration were advised to avoid the area if possible, as road closures and large crowds will affect regular services. For those who do plan to attend, organisers recommended arriving early to find a good viewing spot and to keep personal belongings secure.
While the Réveillon on Avenida Paulista is primarily a cultural and social event, organisers emphasised that it also provides an economic boost for the city. Hotels and hospitality services benefit from the surge in visitors, and cultural performers gain wide exposure from a diverse audience.
As midnight approaches, authorities will continue to assess conditions on the ground and to adjust transport operations as required. The coordinated effort by the metro, municipal services and event teams aims to ensure that the celebration is memorable and safe for everyone who comes to mark the start of the new year in São Paulo.
Key Takeaways:
- São Paulo expects up to two million people for New Year festivities on Avenida Paulista, with extended metro services.
- Line 2 (Green) stations Paraíso, Brigadeiro and Trianon-Masp will operate throughout the night for boarding and alighting.
- Other stations will allow boarding until 02:00 and remain open for disembarkation afterwards to ease crowd flow.
- Attendees can enjoy up to 14 hours of free performances; glass and sharp objects are prohibited for safety.
