New Year’s traditions around the world vary widely, but many cultures have their own unique customs and celebrations to mark the start of a new year. Here are some examples of New Year’s traditions from different parts of the world:
Spain
The Spanish start their new year by eating 12 grapes, one on each stroke of the clock at midnight on New Year’s Eve. It is believed to ward off evil while boosting your chances of a prosperous and lucky new year.
United States
Times Square is where millions of Americans head to on New Year’s Eve to watch the ball drop at the stroke of midnight every year.
Denmark
Every woman’s dream; to get new dishes. But Danish women get their wish every year. That’s because residents in Denmark greet the New Year by throwing old plates and glasses against the doors to banish bad spirits and bring good luck to loved ones. So, the more they break, the better it is.
Greece
Who would have thought that a kitchen staple like onion can bring good luck for the new year ahead? In Greece, Greeks believe that onions are a symbol of rebirth, so onions are hung on their doors to promote fertility and growth.
China
Chinese people believe that the colour red brings happiness and good luck. On New Year’s Eve, they will hang red cloths and lanterns at the door frames and hand out red packets of money to children.
Panama
To start the New Year afresh, it is a tradition to burn effigies of well-known celebrities or political figures to ward off evil spirits. These effigies represent the old year.
Ireland
Irish people believe that by banging loaves of Christmas bread against walls and doors all around the house can drive evil spirits away. This will make way for a healthy and prosperous new year.
Turkey
When the clock strikes midnight, Turkish people sprinkle salt at their doorsteps. This is to promote peace and prosperity throughout the new year.
How did you ring in 2023 in your country?