In every corner of the globe, the arrival of a new year represents a fresh start, a chance for renewal, and an opportunity to celebrate life’s possibilities. The stroke of midnight triggers a multitude of fascinating traditions deeply rooted in the history and culture of each region. These customs, whether they involve grand festivals or quiet reflection, echo a universal sentiment of hope and aspiration, bridging our diverse world.
Spain
As the clock strikes midnight in Spain, locals eat twelve grapes, one for each chime. Each grape symbolizes good luck for one month of the coming year.
Denmark
In Denmark, people throw old plates and glasses against the doors of family and friends to ward off evil spirits. The more broken pieces in front of a home, the more popular you are!
Japan
In Japan, Buddhist temples ring their bells 108 times at midnight to cleanse the 108 earthly desires believed to cause human suffering.
Brazil
Brazilians jump seven waves at the beach for good luck and offer flowers to the goddess of the sea, Yemanja.
Scotland
In Scotland, the first person who crosses the threshold of a home in the new year should carry a gift for good luck, a tradition called “first-footing.”
Ecuador
In Ecuador, people make giant, elaborate effigies, or ‘Año Viejo,’ of politicians, pop culture figures, or other notable personalities to set ablaze, symbolizing getting rid of the old year.
Philippines
In the Philippines, round shapes representing coins (symbolizing prosperity) dominate every celebration aspect, from the clothes to the food.
South Africa
In some parts of South Africa, people throw furniture out of their windows to leave the past behind and start the New Year fresh.
Russia
Russians write down a wish for the New Year, burn it, collect the ashes in a glass of champagne, and drink it as soon as the clock strikes midnight.
Greece
In Greece, an onion is traditionally hung on the front door of homes on New Year’s Eve as a symbol of rebirth in the coming year.
Germany
In Germany, people drop molten lead into cold water and predict the future based on its shape.
Chile
In Chile, families spend the night in the company of their deceased loved ones by sleeping at the cemetery.
USA
In the USA, the famous’ ball drop’ takes place in Times Square, New York, with a million people watching the sparkling ‘New Year’s Eve Ball’ descend a flagpole.
Finland
In Finland, people predict the coming year by casting molten tin into a water container and then interpreting the resulting shape.
Estonia
In Estonia, people believe in eating seven, nine, or twelve times on New Year’s Eve to ensure abundance in those months of the new year.
More From Health Makes You
Respect isn’t just about what you do; it’s also about how you present yourself and interact with others. Don’t do these things, and people will respect you.
Want People to Respect You? DON’T DO These 20 Things
Want to Live a Long Life? Don’t Do These 20 Things
Do you want to live a long and healthy life? You should avoid doing certain things. Research shows that some habits, behaviors, and activities can harm your health. From smoking cigarettes to drinking too much alcohol, these unhealthy practices can cut your life short. So what are the top 20 worst things you can do for your health? Read on to find out!
Want to Live a Long Life? DON’T DO These 20 Things
25 Habits to Quite Right Now Before It’s Too Late
We all have bad habits, some of which can be incredibly difficult to break, but it’s possible with the right steps. The first step is recognizing the habit you want to quit before resolving to make a change. Here are 25 bad habits you need to quit right now!
25 Bad Habits to Quit RIGHT NOW Before It’s Too Late
18 Signs You Might Be Too Good for Your Own Good
Are you a perfectionist? Are you too hard on yourself? Being “too good for your own good” can lead to major stress and unhappiness. Here’s how to know if you are too good and must tone it down a notch.
18 Signs You Might Be Too Good for Your Own Good
15 Things to Never Buy at a Grocery Store
Navigating the supermarket aisles can be daunting when trying to stick to a budget and eat healthily. While some items are no-brainers, others might surprise you with their costs or questionable nutritional value. This guide unveils items you should avoid purchasing at your local grocery store to help you save money and make better dietary choices.
15 Things to Never Buy at a Grocery Store
This article was produced on Health Makes You.