sunrises in copacabana are simply beautiful, as the sun rises from behind the mountains of the bay. this beach enjoys about 30 minutes of extra direct sunlight in the morning, versus ipanema and leblon that get extra direct sunlight in the afternoon. many who enjoy witnessing the sun rise in copacabana, often go to ipanema to see it fade at sunset. lots of people start jogging along the beach soon after sunrise, along with many practicing sports right on the sand before heading to work.

this beach has been the set for major concerts of such artists as rod stewart, the rolling stones, lenny kravitz, stevie wonder, and roberto carlos. copacabana beach is the prime location for new-years' eve fireworks and celebrations in rio, home to spectacular fireworks entertaining over two million revelers, mostly dressed in white.