As December 31 approaches, celebrations worldwide mark the arrival of the new year with unique and sometimes surprising traditions.
While fireworks and countdowns are staples in many places, some cultures offer more unconventional customs to welcome the year ahead.
In Germany, people watch the Queen’s Speech and jump from furniture at midnight for luck, according to Tag24.
Across the border in Denmark, families leap from chairs or tables precisely at the stroke of midnight, symbolizing a "jump" into good fortune in the news year.
In Spain, eating 12 grapes in sync with the chimes of midnight is a cherished tradition, believed to ensure prosperity for each month of the coming year.
In Ireland, "first footing" involves welcoming a dark-haired visitor after midnight, who brings small gifts like whiskey or coins as tokens of good luck.
In the Philippines, New Year’s celebrations focus on wealth and health.
Round fruits, symbolizing coins, are displayed prominently, while dishes like pancit noodles promise long life. Loud noises, from banging pots to booming music, are used to ward off evil spirits.
For a dazzling display, Australia’s Sydney Harbour steals the spotlight with its iconic fireworks. The spectacle, viewed by millions globally, pairs breathtaking pyrotechnics with light shows.
In contrast, South Africans head to sunny beaches to celebrate, braving ocean waves and enjoying summer picnics.
Some traditions lean more introspective. In Russia, President Putin’s New Year’s address precedes a rush to write wishes on paper, burn them, and sip the ashes mixed in champagne.
Meanwhile, many dress in colors tied to the upcoming year’s Chinese zodiac animal. For 2025, green outfits will represent the Year of the Snake.
Other countries celebrate the new year on different dates. China follows the lunar calendar, with its new year in late January.
The celebrations feature lion dances, red decorations, and door openings to invite luck inside.
Similarly, Jewish and Islamic new year traditions follow unique calendars, focusing on symbolic practices like eating round bread or reflecting on personal growth.
