Brush Stroke

Different New Year's Eve Customs from Around the Globe Let's See

New Year's Eve Customs in the United States

New Year's Eve is celebrated with a variety of activities. One of the most popular traditions is the annual ball drop in Times Square.

New Year's Eve Customs in the United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, New Year's Eve is celebrated with many of the same traditions as in the United States. watching of the Big Ben chimes at midnight.

In Germany, people often exchange gifts and sing traditional songs. This is known as ‘Silvester’ and is considered a time for joy and celebration.

Emily Smith, Art Historian

New Year's Eve Customs in Europe

New Year's Eve Customs in Asia

In Japan, people often eat soba noodles on New Year's Eve. This tradition is believed to bring good luck and health in the new year.

In Nigeria, a popular custom is to share food with friends and family. This is believed to bring good luck and health in the coming year.

New Year's Eve Customs in Africa

Spain: Eating Grapes For Good Luck

In Spain, locals will eat exactly 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight to honor a tradition that started in the late 19th century

In Brazil for New Year's Eve, it is commonplace for citizens to make offerings to Yemoja, a major water deity who is said to control the seas.

Brazil: Throwing White Flowers Into the Ocean

In Turkey, it's considered good luck to sprinkle salt on your doorstep as soon as the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Day

Turkey: Sprinkling Salt

Czech Republic: Cutting Apples

The shape of the apple's core is said to determine the fate of everyone surrounding it. Czechs prefer to predict their future fortunes on New Year's Eve.

Japan: Ringing Bells

108 Buddhist temples in Japan ring their bells on New Year's Eve. This tradition, known as joyanokane, is meant to dispel the 108 evil desires in each and every person.