Léo Santana is set to take center stage as he leads the countdown to the New Year on December 31, 2024, during the Festival Virada Salvador, one of the most anticipated celebrations of the year. The popular Brazilian singer will perform at the Arena Canto da Cidade, where he will welcome 2025 alongside thousands of enthusiastic fans and tourists gathering to celebrate.
With excitement bubbling over, Santana shared his heartfelt anticipation for the upcoming event. “I have no doubt 2025 will be a year of blessings for all of us. I'm incredibly happy to usher in the new year with friends, family, and tourists from all over the world who come to enjoy the beauty and unique energy of our city,” he stated, reflecting on the significance of the moment.
This year marks Santana’s first time leading the countdown at the festival, which is traditionally filled with big-name performances from renowned artists. The program for the night promises to be exhilarating, kicking off at 7 p.m. with performances starting with the band Parangolé, under the new leadership of vocalist Lincoln Senna. Excitement is high as Lincoln expressed, “It’s such an honor to play at the Festival Virada Salvador. Sharing the stage with such incredible artists is thrilling. This festival has become a global tourist attraction, and it's time to celebrate together.”
Following Parangolé, beloved sertanejo duo Jorge & Mateus will bring their signature romantic tunes to the stage, keeping the audience entertained with fan-favorite hits.
Then, as the clock approaches midnight, Léo Santana will take over the stage at 11 p.m., ready to bring the house down with his upbeat songs. His performance will include some of his biggest hits like "Posturado e Calmo," "Santinha," and his new summer hit, "Surra de Toma." He began his set by performing "Negro Lindo," recalling his days leading Parangolé, warming up the crowd for the spectacular moment.
While Santana captivates the crowd with his talent, the Festival Virada Salvador will also feature another thrilling element: the fireworks display. Coordinated to last approximately 10 minutes, the fireworks will erupt from 20 different locations across Salvador, creating breathtaking visuals as people cheer to welcome the new year.
The display will include two key sites near the Arena Canto da Cidade and the surrounding fishing colony, ensuring festive sparks light up the bay during the countdown to 2025. Traditional locations like the beaches of Barra and Itapuã will also join this special celebration, adding to the city's vibrant New Year’s atmosphere.
Alongside Santana, several artists, including Luan Santana, known for his lively sertanejo tunes, and Belo, who is famed for his romantic ballads, will keep the party going well past midnight. Mari Fernandez, another rising star, will cap the night, performing as the sun begins to rise on the New Year.
While festivities ensue, public safety remains a top priority, with local authorities ensuring everyone enjoys the celebration safely. The Maritime Rescue Coordination has deployed rescue teams and aquatic vehicles along the coast to assist those who may want to take beach dips to welcome the new year.
Health officials are also keeping watch over the event, addressing any necessary medical assistance for attendees who may overindulge on celebratory spirits during the festivities. So far, there have been no major incidents reported, thanks to extensive safety measures put in place throughout the festival.
All eyes will be focused on Léo Santana and the packed arena as midnight approaches, with fans eager to share this unforgettable moment. The energy is palpable, and as Santana wrapped up his earlier comments with gratitude, he remarked, “2025 will bring countless achievements to all of you. My eternal gratitude for everything I experience here tonight.”
With festivities underway and the excitement building, Léo Santana is not just stepping up as the performer; he’s becoming the heart of the New Year’s celebration, embodying the spirit and joy synonymous with Salvador.