Other than dressing in white as per Brazilian tradition, we had no idea how to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Florianópolis. We were here on December 31 in 2020 and 2021, but it was during the pandemic—technically, all “reveillon” events were cancelled and there were fewer tourists.

This year, Santa Catarina Island is packed and there were events in the city and at different beaches. Traffic jams were likely so we had to pick a place and stick to it. Beach party or city fireworks? We hesitated until the last minute.

We spent the day at Praia do Morro das Pedras, south of Praia de Campeche. Mark and I tried some big-wave bodysurfing—we survived!

Then we spent the night around Floripa’s beloved Ponte Hercílio Luz, waiting for the midnight fireworks. We had a fun and very typical New Year’s Eve—many silly selfies, a lot of waiting around, some cheap champagne, and considering it’s 3 a.m., I should probably take a shower and sleep.

Happy New Year! May 2024 bring you happiness and luck!