New Year's Traditions Worldwide
As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, people worldwide welcome 2025 with unique traditions, both familiar and unusual.
My Jewish friend sent me a hilarious video of them doing aerobics with Santa—the jolly, not-grumpy guy in the red and white suit who makes his yearly rounds. On that festive note, why not read traditions around the world and try something new to ring in 2025?
Times Square Ball Drop
Since 1907, New York City's Times Square has hosted its iconic ball drop, a tradition inspired by 19th-century maritime time signals. Today, hundreds of thousands gather in Times Square, while over a billion tune in to watch the event live on TV.
First footing
In Scotland, Hogmanay celebrations include the "first footing" tradition, where the first person to enter a home after midnight brings symbolic items such as coal, shortbread, salt, a black bun, and whiskey for good luck. Sometimes, guests leave just before midnight so they can return as the "first foot" in the new year: The Scotsman
Watching British comedy
In Germany and some European countries, watching the British comedy sketch "Dinner for One" on New Year's Eve has been a beloved tradition since 1972. The sketch features a butler serving his elderly employer and her imaginary guests, entertaining millions of viewers each year.
Finding 12 round fruits
Filipinos celebrate New Year's Eve with various traditions for prosperity and good luck, such as displaying 12 round fruits, wearing polka dots, lighting fireworks, and avoiding cleaning on New Year's Day to preserve good fortune.
Jumping waves and wearing white (yes you can wear white)
In Brazil, people celebrate New Year's Eve by wearing white, going to the beach, and honoring the ocean goddess Iemanjá with offerings. They jump over seven waves, expressing gratitude for past blessings, and avoid turning their backs to the sea to ward off bad luck.
Ringing bells 108 times
In Japan, Buddhist temples follow the tradition of Joya no Kane, ringing bells 108 times on New Year's Eve. This symbolizes removing the 108 earthly desires from one's life, according to Buddhist beliefs. The term "Joya no Kane" represents the idea of moving on from the past and welcoming the new year.
Hanging onions
In Greece, families attend church services on New Year's Day and then hang onions on their doors or in their homes. This tradition stems from ancient Greece, where onions symbolized growth and rebirth, making them a symbol of good health, fertility, and longevity in the new year.
Taking a suitcase around the block
In parts of Latin America, people observe a New Year's tradition of walking or running with an empty suitcase around the block. This symbolic aims to attract good luck and encourage more travel opportunities throughout the upcoming year.
Leaping into the new year
Danes leap off furniture, like chairs and sofas, at midnight on New Year's Eve, believing this energetic jump brings good luck and helps overcome challenges in the new year.
Eating a dozen grapes
Spaniards have a unique New Year's Eve tradition of eating 12 grapes, one for each clock chime at midnight. This custom is believed to bring good luck in the coming year. The grapes are traditionally a specific variety that is harvested in late November or December. The practice has been observed for over a century and remains a beloved part of Spanish culture.
New Year's Eve in Canada: Festivities and Fun Across the Country
Canadians celebrate New Year's Eve in a variety of ways, often with parties, gatherings, and public events. Canada celebrates New Year's Eve with a diverse range of events and activities. From outdoor concerts and fireworks at Niagara Falls to family-friendly festivities in Toronto, Québec City and Calgary, there's something for everyone. Many cities host parties, parades, and live performances, and popular activities include ice skating, skiing, and polar bear plunges. Canadians welcome the new year with excitement and enthusiasm, making it a memorable occasion for all.
Happy New Year... 2005! 🎆🥳🍾🎊⏰🎉🎊
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