The history of the New Year holiday in different countries. How the New Year is celebrated in different countries - the most interesting New Year's traditions
New Year is the most magical holiday. A decorated Christmas tree, the clinking of champagne glasses, shiny toys, a clock strike - this is what the average resident of the Russian Federation associates with the New Year.
However, not all countries celebrate this date as we do. Many peoples have very unusual, and sometimes even strange traditions that are customary to observe on New Year's Eve. And the celebration of the New Year itself does not always fall from December 31st to January 1st, and, moreover, in some countries the date of New Year's celebration is "floating" and is often appointed by the government. There are a whole lot of interesting traditions and customs, which we will tell you about today.
in Italy
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Hot and temperamental Italians celebrate this holiday in the same emotional way, which is quite consistent with their character. On New Year's Eve, it is customary to throw old and unnecessary things out of the windows: absolutely everything is used - from crockery with cracks to a broken refrigerator. Walking the streets in the evening, you need to be extremely careful, otherwise you risk getting a powerful blow with an iron or a chair. After all the rubbish is mercilessly thrown away, the Italians take care of their wardrobe - on New Year's Eve, the wardrobe should be filled with new clothes, and the holiday should also be celebrated in new clothes. It is believed that such a custom helps a person to cleanse himself of everything old and prepare for the new.
As in many other countries, the New Year in Italy is a time of gifts. Children are preparing their shoes for surprises from the Befana fairy, while adults are waiting for Babbo Natale (Italian Santa Claus). Even if you have nothing to give - do not worry. Just bring your friend "new water" from the spring and an olive twig. This gift is sure to bring happiness.
In Austria
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In Austria, the New Year begins with Strauss's operetta "Die Fledermaus" at the Vienna Opera - this is the main symbol of the holiday. The feast is merry and loud: people release fireworks into the air and open a masquerade to exorcise evil spirits; housewives prepare a festive table: suckling pig, hot punch, green ice cream, chocolate or marzipan piglets.
Also, the Austrians do not miss the chance to find out what awaits them next year - fortune-telling on lead helps them in this. Molten metal is poured into cold water, and then they look at what kind of figure it turned out.
In Finland
As you know, Finland is the birthplace of Santa Claus, but here his name is Joulupukki. He has talking deer and a mountain of goodies. He delivers them to obedient children, managing to travel the whole world in one night.
For the Finns, the New Year is a kind of repetition of Christmas: they gather again with the whole family at the festive table, arrange funny performances and tell fortunes on wax.
In Ireland
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During the celebration of the New Year, the Irish are distinguished by their hospitality - looking into any house, you can count on refreshments and an honored guest place at the table. And it will not be difficult to enter the Irishman's house on New Year's Eve, as they open all the doors and windows so that the unclean forces leave. Here you will be treated to traditional pastries - seed cake (cookies with cumin), as well as a variety of meat, fish and vegetable dishes. A special place is occupied by pudding. It is worth noting that Irish housewives cook it three times a year: at Christmas, New Year and Epiphany.
As in many other countries, in Ireland it is also customary to guess. The girls put mistletoe, clover, ivy, and lavender under their pillows and go to bed to dream of seeing their betrothed.
In Brazil
Although the New Year is celebrated in Brazil on December 31st, it is a summer holiday because the sun, sea and beach always reign here. Unlike many other nations, Brazilians celebrate this day outside the home - they go to bars and restaurants to watch the New Year's fireworks and have a good rest.
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Since Brazilian culture has African origins, it is customary to pay tribute to the goddess of the sea, Imange, on New Year's Eve. To do this, they make a wish and send candles and white flowers to the sea on wooden boards. It is believed that the further the candle floats without going out, the more likely it is that the wish will come true.
There is another custom that will help to fulfill the desire. To do this, you need to eat twelve grapes. Brazilians also call everyone around brothers and sisters, forgiving insults and promising to be more tolerant of each other. Interestingly, there is no Santa Claus here at all.
In Japan
In Japan, the New Year is exclusively a family holiday. It is believed that on this day seven gods descend to earth, including those who are the patrons of rice and fishing - the staple food in Japan.
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The fact that a new year has come to earth is announced by 108 blows that come from the temple. The Japanese believe that there are six basic human vices - greed, greed, envy, frivolity, anger and stupidity, each of which has 18 subspecies. One strike of the bell is designed to expel one misfortune from a person. When the last blow strikes, people go out into the street to congratulate each other on ... birthdays. It is interesting that many years ago in Japan they did not celebrate this date and everyone at the same time added “one” to their age on New Year's Eve.
In the evening, the whole family gathers at the festive table. There is no place for fun, noise and din - everyone should seriously think about the coming year, full of new events.
And for little Japanese O-shogatsu(New Year) is one of the most long-awaited holidays, because Segatsu-san (Santa Claus) will bring interesting gifts that the kids have been waiting for a whole year.
In Guatemala
In Guatemala, the New Year is celebrated very noisily: cheerful festivities on the streets, grilled vegetables and meat, street performers - all these are integral attributes of the holiday. As in Italy, it is customary to get rid of old things. However, here they are not just thrown out the windows, but burned in bonfires in the main square of the city. While unnecessary irons and pots are burning, people walk around the fire, beat drums and set off fireworks. And here you can’t do without alcoholic drinks: local rum, beer and the famous Rompopo cocktail.
IN THE USA
As in Russia, in the USA the celebration of the New Year begins on the evening of December 31st. Americans celebrate this holiday noisily, cheerfully, with foaming champagne and the clink of glasses. On this day, two of the most important events of the year take place in the United States: the Pantomime Parade and the Tournament of Roses.
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The pantomime parade was first held in Philadelphia by Irish settlers who staged the celebration as a ten-hour performance. It is accompanied by songs and dances. People under the leadership of the King of Pantomime march through the streets of the city. The Tournament of Roses is also a very bright, beautiful and memorable event. For the first time this holiday was held in the state of California. The end of the tournament is evidenced by the Pink Ball football match, which is broadcast on all television channels in the country.
Americans also have their own New Year's symbols. The most famous are the old man and the baby. The first symbolizes the outgoing year, and the second - a new one. Also, Americans write themselves "New Year's tasks" - what they should do in the new year, for example, quit smoking, lose weight or spend less money on entertainment.
In Germany
New Year in Germany is called Sylvester and celebrate it, as a rule, outside the home. With the first strikes of the chimes, announcing the onset of the new year, the Germans take to the streets with champagne, fireworks and congratulate each other on the holiday. Also in Germany there is an interesting custom: a few seconds before the clock strikes, people climb onto chairs to “jump” into the new year.
It is also a very long-awaited event for the little ones. Children believe in Santa Nikolaus, who will bring them gifts on a donkey and leave them on the windowsill.
In Denmark
New Year traditions in Denmark are very interesting and unusual. Food plays a very important role. On the evening of December 31, the housewives prepare a large bowl of porridge, on the bottom of which they put almonds or nuts. If he comes across an unmarried girl, then in the near future she will have a wedding, for the rest it means a happy and favorable year. Other popular dishes are potatoes and fish.
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This holiday is especially long-awaited for children. They are looking forward to Yulenissa - the younger Santa Claus. By the way, it is worth noting that there are two of them in Denmark - the second is called Ulemanden. But it is Yulenesse who makes toys for children in her forest house for a whole year, and on New Year's Eve brings them home. And Yulemanden is an old, old grandfather, he is helped by elves.
Parents also do nice things for their children. The children receive as a gift a Christmas tree made of wood or in the form of a soft plush toy, from under which the troll's paws look out - it is believed that this is the soul of the tree.
In China
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The Chinese celebrate the beginning of the new year between January 17 and February 19, during the new moon. In China, as in Japan, the New Year is a traditional family holiday. But the preparation starts early.
People cover doors and windows with paper in order not to let the evil spirits that envelop the new year into their homes. Petards and fireworks on New Year's Eve have the same meaning. The hostesses prepare a gala dinner and set the table in the living room. Before proceeding to a meal in a narrow family circle, food is first "offered" to deceased relatives.
Also on this day, all grievances are forgiven. After dinner, no one goes to bed, so as not to miss their "new" happiness.
In Estonia
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Although the New Year is not a traditional Estonian holiday, this day is officially recognized as a day off. Due to the fact that many Russians live in Estonia, the New Year is celebrated here four times: according to Russian time, according to Estonian, according to the old style and according to the Eastern calendar. As in most Eastern European countries, in Estonia the New Year is celebrated very cheerfully and noisily: champagne flows like water, a richly laid table allows you to enjoy the taste of traditional New Year's dishes, alcoholic drinks amaze with their variety.
Estonians decorate the streets of cities in a European way with garland lights, shiny hanging toys; candles are flickering in the houses and fluffy Christmas trees are burning. There is a wide range of entertainment for young people: many nightclubs and hotels offer New Year's programs.
In Switzerland
It is customary for the Swiss to celebrate the New Year twice: from December 31st to January 1st and according to the old Julian calendar. As in many other European countries, here this holiday is celebrated noisily and cheerfully. People bawl, blow up firecrackers and firecrackers, trying in this way to drive away evil forces. On the night of January 13-14, you can see very unusually dressed people - on their heads they wear either a dollhouse or a small botanical garden. These are residents who are highly respected by the townspeople. They are the main "fighters" with evil spirits.
In Switzerland, there is a very interesting belief for the New Year: if a drop of cream falls on the floor, then the year for the owners of the house will be successful and happy.
In Australia
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The Australian New Year is not at all like the European one, as there is no traditional Christmas tree, toys, gifts from Santa and snow-white snow. But Australia has its own special holiday. Instead of traditional spruce, Australians dress up pine or cedar.
Also, the world's largest New Year's fireworks are launched here, and after that they hold a parade of boats. For lovers of marine technology, this is a real event, as here you can see boats, ships and boats of all shapes and sizes. Well, if you are not a big fan of such technical innovations, then take a walk along the beach - here you will meet a snow maiden in a bikini, who will give you a nice souvenir as a keepsake.
In the Dominican Republic
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Rest in the Dominican Republic is the dream of the most fastidious tourist. And probably every person on the planet dreams of celebrating the New Year among exotic trees, flowers, hot beaches and passionate Latin American rhythms. The symbol of the New Year in the Dominican Republic is, like ours, spruce. However, not everyone can afford a living tree, so people buy artificial coniferous beauties and decorate them with corals, interesting shells and luxurious fresh flowers.
The New Year is celebrated here noisily and cheerfully with dancing until the morning. You should definitely buy new clothes - this promises good luck and prosperity in the new year. And if you want to travel a lot, then take your favorite suitcase, pack it as for a vacation and run around your house with it several times. Do not forget about the decor of the house - Dominicans decorate their homes with balloons and colorful ribbons.
In Scotland
The traditions of celebrating the New Year in Scotland are very interesting and have ancient roots. One of the oldest customs is associated with a barrel of tar. It must be set on fire and rolled down the street. In this way the Scots burn the old year and light the way for the new.
Scottish New Year is called Hogmany and it is celebrated for four whole days. These days the doors of houses are open to everyone. The most welcome guest is a black-haired man, preferably a chimney sweep. According to ancient belief, if he enters the house with a piece of coal and throws it into a blazing fire in the fireplace, then this will bring happiness and good luck to the family. Four major Scottish festivals start on New Year's Eve - a torch parade, a street performance and party, and a musical event.
In France
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New Year traditions in France are very interesting and unusual. So winemakers have a custom to be the first to congratulate ... their wine barrel on the New Year. The owner pours a glass of wine, clinks glasses with a barrel, and then hugs her. The hostesses, meanwhile, bake a traditional pie and put one bean in it. The one who gets it at the festive table is declared the "bean king", and that evening everyone will fulfill his wishes.
The French also have their own Santa Claus, his name is Pierre Noel. By the way, he has an assistant named Pierre Fuetard. He strictly monitors Noel and makes sure that he gives only obedient, hardworking and kind kids, and bad children receive a rod instead of a gift.
in Peru
Peruvians, like almost all Latin Americans, are very emotional, so they celebrate the New Year just as violently. In particular, there is a custom to throw away bad emotions and thoughts, just as Italians get rid of unnecessary and old things. And they do it with fights! Yes exactly. Everyone joins the general process, including women and teenagers. In this way, they do not allow fate to punish themselves for some misdeeds in the outgoing year - it is unlikely that she will want to cause damage to the already battered Peruvians.
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And for those who are planning or really want to make a long-awaited trip, there is another tradition - you need to take your favorite suitcase and run around your quarter with it, moreover, you need to have time to do this before the new year.
And those who want to attract good luck in the coming year must eat 13 grapes before the clock strikes twelve. Particular attention is paid to the last, thirteenth grape, since it is she who brings success. And immediately after the onset of the new year, Peruvians take to the streets and burn an effigy stuffed with firecrackers. In this way, fireworks are launched at the same time.
In Cuba
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Cuba also has a New Year's tradition associated with grapes. But, unlike Peruvians, Cubans eat 12 grapes - you can make one wish every month. Some traditions are very similar to Russian ones, for example, the New Year tree. However, the Cubans have their own symbol of the New Year - this is an araucaria (coniferous tree) or an ordinary palm tree. And instead of champagne they have Cuban rum. For the New Year, a traditional cocktail is made here, consisting of rum, orange juice, liqueur and ice.
As for Santa Claus, it is worth noting that the Cubans have three of them: Gaspar, Valtasar and Melchior. They are the masters of magic and fulfill all the wishes of the children, which they inform the kings in their letters.
Once in Cuba on New Year's Eve and going out into the street, few people remain dry. And it's understandable, because Cubans have a custom to pour water out of windows and doors - in this way they see off the old year, and with it all the bad things. And the traditional Cuban "wet wish" promises success and happiness in the new year.
In Greece
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As in most other countries, in Greece the New Year is celebrated on the night of December 31st to January 1st. In addition, on this day, the Greeks celebrate the name day of Vasily. People with this name are congratulated and given gifts, and temples and churches named after St. Basil offer special celebration programs, which often include various foods and drinks. On New Year's Eve it is customary to play cards, as this is a happy day for the players.
One of the main symbols of the Greek New Year is basil - it is added to various dishes, people decorate their homes with it. There is another interesting belief: any container filled with fresh water is cleansed on this day.
New Year's dishes also play a big role. The hostesses prepare a special cake called Vassilopita, in which they put one small coin. Whoever gets it will be especially lucky in the coming year.
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Every nation, every country has its own history, its own important events that started it all. Or natural phenomena, after which you can draw a line, draw conclusions, rejoice and count down the new year.
site He will tell you about several countries where the traditions of celebrating the New Year are so different.
China celebrates New Year in February
New Year in the Gwaun Valley begins on January 13th. On this holiday, children sing old songs in Welsh and go around the neighbors, begging for sweets and gifts.
Bonus: what kind of holiday is this - the old New Year?
Old New Year arose during the transition from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian, the difference between which is now 13 days. The New Year, according to the old style, begins on the night of January 13-14.
The Old New Year is celebrated in Russia, in all the former republics of the Soviet Union, in Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. In Macedonia, it is customary to celebrate the old New Year on the street - the neighbors take out and set the tables and together celebrate the onset of the New Year in the old style. In Switzerland, the old New Year is called "Old Saint Sylvester's Day". And in Serbia it is called the Serbian New Year. In Japan, the old New Year is Risshun, the celebration of the beginning of spring.
Hello dear readers. All kids are looking forward to the New Year holidays, because this time is usually remembered by the abundance of various sweets and amazing gifts. Of course, for kids this part of the holiday is the main one, but do not forget that Grandfather Frost brings gifts not only to obedient children, but also to those who know the history of the New Year. Therefore, it is better for us to prepare in advance for the holiday and still get acquainted with the history of the New Year in our country. We will also get acquainted with the most interesting and unusual traditions of celebrating the New Year from other peoples, and perhaps we will borrow several rituals from them. We are used to celebrating the New Year on the night when the last month of the year ends, although earlier everything was somewhat different.
By the way, in some countries of the world, the New Year celebration falls on a different month of a completely different time of the year.
So, let's find out how and when we celebrated the New Year some time ago. The history of the new year is interesting for both children and adults. In addition, we will get acquainted with some interesting facts about New Year celebrations in other countries.
History of the New Year - for children and adults
The holiday was March 1st. Imagine celebrating the New Year without snow, gloomy skies and severe frost? Of course, our March most often resembles January, but, nevertheless, not everyone would like the spring New Year.
It is unlikely that people used to think about the nuances of the celebration, because they had completely different concerns at that time. Well, for us, the lack of New Year's mood may seem like a real tragedy.
Why did March become the starting point of the new year? But the fact is that it was in this month that people were already actively preparing for sowing fields, because their comfortable existence directly depended on the harvest.
Therefore, they tried their best to meet the next year so that it would bring them a rich harvest. By the way, the lighting of garlands in this magical time originated from that time. After all, among the Slavs, lighting fires meant that this year the harvest should be rich.
New Year September 1st. But, already with the adoption of Christianity, everything changed, and the New Year began to be celebrated on September 1, when most of the harvest had already been harvested.
It was in such a season that people could arrange a real holiday with an abundance of delicious dishes.
Holiday New Year January 1. But since 1700, Peter l gave a decree that said that the countdown of the new year would begin on January 1, as in other European countries.
It was at this time that a tradition appeared to decorate an ordinary spruce with various decorations that help it transform into a real New Year's tree.
Since then, people have begun to celebrate the New Year according to all the traditions that we have long been accustomed to.
Pompous celebrations were held, accompanied by fireworks and costumed festivities.
New Year is a holiday story for children. Traditions of different countries
The New Year traditions of some countries may seem somewhat “wild” to us, although they are familiar to their inhabitants.
Perhaps some of our customs may cause some surprise, but this does not mean that they should not be respected, right?
Let's take a look at how people are used to celebrating this amazing night in different countries. It is interesting that absolutely identical traditions do not exist, even in neighboring countries.
We will talk about how the New Year is celebrated in different countries, we will consider only the most interesting examples of celebrations that will definitely surprise you with their unusualness.
1. England
Exactly at midnight, the British open the doors to the backyard so that all the bad things that happened in the past year leave this house.
So, they not only say goodbye to past troubles, but also see off all the good things that happened this year. Such a ceremony is carried out with the onset of midnight.
But before the clock shows one minute of the new year, you need to have time to open the front door. That's right, they seem to invite the New Year not only to their home, but also to their lives.
In addition to the New Year tree, the British decorate their homes with mistletoe sprigs, which are placed above the doorway. A rather tricky move, because those two who find themselves under such a plant will have to kiss.
2. Hungary
Interestingly, the Hungarians most often call the New Year's holiday "Sylvester", and this is due to the fact that the beginning of the celebration falls on the evening of December 31st. It is this day that the Hungarians consider Sylvester's Day.
Everyone prepares for such a holiday in their own way, but, in the first seconds of the new year, everyone, as one, begins to blow various whistles and pipes.
Thus, people simultaneously drive out evil spirits from their own homes, and invite joy into the house, with the help of sounds emanating from a festive klaxon.
3. Germany
A minute before the clock strikes "New Year", everyone sitting at the festive table climbs into their chairs and waits for midnight.
With the first chime of the clock, everyone standing on the chairs jumps off them at one moment, as if moving into the new year. Imagine how much noise there will be in a house where many children live.
4. Italy
Well, the Italians even celebrate the New Year in their classic style. Everyone has heard about Italian quarrels, the consequences of which are tons of broken dishes, so they are definitely not going to change their traditions on New Year's Eve.
People are throwing the same broken dishes out of the windows that have accumulated over the past year. But besides this, old furniture and clothes are thrown out of the window.
But even such unnecessary things need to be seen off correctly, therefore, crackers and confetti fly after them.
Such a rite may seem somewhat wasteful, but the Italians are not at all worried about this.
They are not afraid to get rid of the old, because a new purchase always brings a lot of joy.
Well, children, instead of the usual Santa Claus, are waiting for the sorceress Befana. According to legend, she arrives on her broom only once a year, on New Year's Eve, and gives children gifts that they have been dreaming of all year.
Children, along with their parents, hang small shoes on the fireplace that evening for the sorceress to fill them with gifts.
5. Spain
This people has its own bizarre traditions, one of which is eating grapes. Moreover, the Spaniards eat it only in a certain amount, which is equal to the number 12. Thus, they salute each of the months of the next year.
6. Scandinavia
This people probably broke all records in the category of the most unusual New Year's traditions. After all, not everyone will grunt on New Year's Eve, right? And their custom just implies grunting, and they do it under the table.
The Scandinavians are sure that in this way you can easily drive away all the troubles from your family. In general, not such a bad way, and most importantly - fun.
7. China
Have you seen Chinese lanterns at least once in your life? Yes, of course they saw, because they are considered almost the most striking symbol of modern China. So, the New Year, just, is considered the festival of lanterns.
It is interesting that this holiday is celebrated every time in different ways, or rather, its date changes. That is, absolutely any date can be the starting point of the new year.
But, do not think that the numbers are chosen randomly, they are not at all. In terms of holidays, the Chinese always follow the calendar.
Let's move on to the celebration. It consists in lighting the very orange lanterns that we associate with this country.
But, their main purpose is not at all aesthetic. People believe that only such flashlights are able to drive away all evil spirits.
8. Japan
On New Year's Eve, Japanese children dress up in new clothes, which should bring prosperity to the family. In addition, there is a special task for children.
We are used to writing a letter to Santa Claus, in which the secret of the greatest children's desire will be revealed.
But the kids of this people depict their dream on a blank sheet of paper using paints or pencils. It is believed that this is how it can be achieved.
9. India
Surprisingly, in India, the New Year is celebrated as many as eight times. Imagine, we don’t always survive even one night, but there we have to responsibly meet the same year all eight nights a year.
By the way, on one of these celebrations, they have to eat leaves of the neem-neem tree, which are not very tasty, to say the least.
It tastes quite bitter, but people have to do it, because their faith is much stronger. They believe that the foliage of this tree will help maintain health, and also help to cope with any troubles.
10. Bulgaria
But in this country, people are accustomed to celebrating the coming year at home, in general, just like in our country. This holiday is considered a family holiday, so only the closest people are present at the festive table.
The youngest child is solemnly placed on a stool near the Christmas tree, and the baby happily sings New Year's carols. He wishes well-being to all present, for which they give the baby gifts.
11. Cuba
The Cubans have one interesting custom, which is to fill all the vessels with water. And exactly at midnight, all the water pours out of the windows. In this way, people see off the outgoing year.
12. France
The kids find their gifts left by Per-Noel, not under the tree, as we are used to, but in small shoes. They are hung right on the fireplace or left near it.
A bean is hidden in the birthday cake that is baked every year. The one who finds it will be called the "bean king", which means that all the wishes of the king will have to be fulfilled this very minute. But such a small piece of power goes to the winner only for one night.
13. Sweden
Every year, the children pre-select their Queen Lucie, who will be dressed in a white robe (she is the queen of light, after all).
Her main task is to distribute all the gifts intended only for obedient children. In addition, she does not bypass pets.
What is Santa Claus called in other countries?
We are accustomed to calling such a character “Frost”, probably only for our fierce winters.
Our grandfather is dressed in a warm red coat that will keep him warm in the January frosts. He has a long gray beard, and on his head is a red hat in the season of a fur coat.
Every child knows Santa Claus, and looks forward to seeing him every year. But he usually comes not alone, but with his assistant - the Snow Maiden, who helps him distribute gifts to all obedient kids.
Here, for example, in Western European countries , as well as in America, they used to call such a festive character Santa Claus.
He, for the most part, looks like our Santa Claus, because he also wears a red suit, decorated with white fur.
Only Santa Claus has a cap on his head, instead of a hat. In addition, he has a heavier build.
But in Sweden there are two such New Year symbols. The first grandfather was called Yultomten, and the second was named Yulnissaar. Both characters take part in the process of giving New Year's gifts, which they leave on the windowsills in the children's rooms.
Finland she was most remembered for her "Santa Claus", who received the name Joulupukki. He is also wearing a red suit, which is complemented by a cone-shaped red cap. His assistants can be called gnomes, who are dressed in colorful costumes.
France also could not stop at one character, so they also have two Santa Clauses. One gives children gifts that they have long dreamed of, and he brings them in a wicker basket. The other plays the role of a negative character, who, every now and then, punishes naughty children.
in Italy the role of Santa Claus is played by the fairy Befana, who flies into the house on a broomstick through the chimney. She leaves gifts only for obedient children, but for those who did not behave very well this year, she leaves only ashes.
It does not matter exactly how to celebrate the New Year, and most importantly, that all relatives are nearby, and wishes come true at the click of a finger.
And, of course, gifts should correspond to the desire of every child who has been waiting for this magical night all year. And it doesn't matter who brings the gift - Santa Claus or a fairy, because in any case, it will be delivered to the child.
I hope the story of the New Year for children will be interesting and informative. Remember, the most important thing is to believe in a fairy tale, regardless of age. And don't forget to believe in miracles, because only your faith fuels them.
Within one year in the world, within the framework of different religions and different peoples, the New Year is celebrated on different days.
January 1st New Year officially begins in most countries of the world that live according to the Gregorian calendar.
January 14 throughout the CIS celebrate the Old New Year, it is considered the beginning of the year in Greece. This is the day of St. Basil, who was once famous for his kindness and special love for children.
On the first new moon after January 21(in different years it is celebrated between January 21 and February 20) the New Year is coming according to the Eastern calendar, which is followed by such countries as China, Vietnam, Singapore, Korea, Mongolia, Malaysia, etc.
On the first day of the holy month of Muharram in Islamic countries, the Hijri New Year begins (starting from July 16, 622 according to the Gregorian calendar, each next Hijri New Year comes 11 days earlier than the previous one). The 1st Muhharam is not included in the number of Islamic holidays and, accordingly, in most Muslim countries, the New Year is not celebrated as a holiday in the secular sense. On this day, a sermon is read in mosques dedicated to the moving of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina.
24 February Indian New Year's Day Holi. (In India, the New Year is celebrated several times on different days).
10th of March The people of Kashmir begin to celebrate the New Year in India and continue to celebrate it until the end of the New Year celebrations in all Indian states.
On the night of March 21-22 The New Year comes to countries living according to the Persian calendar: Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Iran, Pakistan, Azerbaijan. March 22 is called "Novruz" - the first day of the New Year.
On the first day of the waxing moon in the Hindu month of Chaitra (late March-early April Gregorian), the Indian New Year, Gudi Padva, is celebrated.
In the period from 12 to 17 April New Year is celebrated in Burma. It falls on the most sultry and hot days there. The exact day of the celebration is announced by the Ministry of Culture by a special decree, and the celebrations last for three days.
April 13 Thai New Year Songkran is celebrated. On the same day, the people of West Bengal celebrate the New Year in India.
14th of April New Year is coming to Laos. This is the start of the long awaited rainy season. On the same day, Indians from Tamil Nadu celebrate the arrival of the New Year, and this day coincides with the official onset of spring.
1st and 2nd of the month of Tishri according to the Jewish calendar(usually September Gregorian) New Year is celebrated in Israel, where it is called Rosh Hashanah.
11 September Ethiopian New Year is coming, which marks the end of the rainy season in Ethiopia.
October 7th New Year holidays come to the Gambia and Indonesia. For local residents, this is a special date - you can put on your best outfits, dress up, ask each other for forgiveness for all offenses and enter the New Year with a clear conscience.
Night from October 31 to November 1, known in Catholic countries as "Halloween", is considered the beginning of the New Year among the Celtic peoples, and they call it "Samhain". This date is especially important in Scotland, Ireland and the Isle of Man, where the descendants of the ancient Celts still live and keep centuries-old customs.
November 18th one year is replaced by another in the territory of the Hawaiian Islands, Oceania and Yemen. In these regions, the New Year is celebrated later than everyone else, when other countries are already preparing to celebrate the next year.
The New Year holiday is celebrated in every country, but it is celebrated in different ways. Every nation has its own traditions and peculiarities of New Year celebration.
Italy. On New Year's Eve, irons and old chairs fly out of the windows.
In Italy, it is believed that the New Year must begin, freed from everything old. Therefore, on New Year's Eve, it is customary to throw old things out of the windows. The Italians really like this custom, and they fulfill it with their passion, characteristic of the southerners: old irons, chairs and other rubbish fly through the window. According to signs, the vacant place will certainly be occupied by new things. On the New Year's table, the Italians always have nuts, lentils and grapes - symbols of longevity, health and well-being.
England. To be together for a whole year, lovers must kiss
In England, it is customary to play performances for children on the plots of old English fairy tales on New Year's Eve. Lord Chaos leads a merry carnival procession, in which fairy-tale characters take part: Hobby Horse, March Hare, Humpty Dumpty, Punch and others. All New Year's Eve, street vendors sell toys, whistles, tweeters, masks, balloons. It was in England that the custom arose to exchange greeting cards for the New Year. The first New Year's card was printed in London in 1843.
Mongolia. Santa Claus in a fur coat and a fox hat, and looks very much like a shepherd
New Year in this country coincides with the festival of cattle breeding, so it is characterized by sports competitions, tests of dexterity and courage. Just like the peoples of Europe, the Mongols celebrate the New Year at the Christmas tree, Santa Claus also comes to them, but he is dressed in a furry coat, a fox hat and looks very much like a shepherd.
Mexico. Smashing clay pots for good luck
In Mexico, on New Year's Eve, a clay pot is filled with sweets, which is hung in the room, and then the assembled guests are blindfolded in turn and given a stick in their hands. The one who broke the pot will certainly be lucky in the new year.
Colombia. The old year walks on stilts
The main character of the New Year's carnival in Colombia is the Old Year. He walks in the crowd on high stilts and tells funny stories to children. Papa Pasquale is Colombian Santa Claus. No one knows how to make fireworks better than him. On New Year's Eve, a parade of dolls takes place on the streets of Bogota: dozens of puppet clowns, witches and other fairy-tale characters attached to the roofs of cars drive through the streets of Candelaria, the most ancient district of the Colombian capital, saying goodbye to the inhabitants of the city.
Brazil. Colorful New Year carnivals
Brazil is always famous for its colorful carnivals and festivals. New Year's Eve is no exception. At this time of the year, the streets of Brazilian cities are filled with colorful parades and processions of local residents and guests. Such events are always noisy and fun.
France. The main thing is to hug a barrel of wine and congratulate it on the holiday
French Santa Claus - Pere Noel - comes on New Year's Eve and leaves gifts in children's shoes. The one who gets the bean baked in the New Year's cake receives the title of "bean king" and on the festive night everyone obeys his orders. Santons are wooden or clay figurines that are placed near the Christmas tree. According to tradition, a good owner-winemaker should certainly clink glasses with a barrel of wine, congratulate her on the holiday and drink for the future harvest.
Denmark. Nut in porridge - whoever finds it will definitely get married
On New Year's Eve, housewives serve rice porridge in a huge bowl to the table. A small nut is hidden in the porridge. If a girl finds him, it is believed that she will definitely get married next year.
Finland. Repetition is the mother of learning
In snowy Finland, the main winter holiday is Christmas, which is celebrated on December 25th. On Christmas night, having overcome a long road from Lapland, Santa Claus comes to the house, leaving a large basket with gifts for the delight of the children. New Year is a kind of repetition of Christmas. Once again, the whole family gathers at a table bursting with various dishes. On New Year's Eve, the Finns try to find out their future and guess by melting wax and then pouring it into cold water.
Germany. Santa Claus comes to the Germans on a donkey
In Germany, it is believed that Santa Claus appears on a donkey on New Year's Eve. Before going to bed, the children put a plate on the table for gifts that Santa Claus will bring them, and they put hay in their shoes - a treat for his donkey.
Cuba. Water is poured out of the windows
Children's New Year's holiday in Cuba is called the Day of the Kings. The wizard-kings who bring gifts to children are Balthazar, Gaspard and Melchor. On the eve, the children write letters to them, in which they talk about their cherished desires. Cubans on New Year's Eve fill all the dishes that are in the house with water, and at midnight they begin to pour it out of the windows. So all the inhabitants of the island of Freedom wish the New Year a bright and clean, like water, path. In the meantime, while the clock strikes 12 strokes, you need to eat 12 grapes, and then goodness, harmony, prosperity and peace will accompany you for all twelve months.
Canada. Traditional New Year's rides
In Canada, it is traditional to celebrate the New Year on the street in the company of acquaintances and strangers. A lot of people gather in all the squares of the country, pop stars perform. Canadians really like to ride on the rink on New Year's Eve.
Panama. The Loudest New Year
In Panama, at midnight, when the New Year is just beginning, all the bells ring, sirens howl, cars honk. The Panamanians themselves - both children and adults - at this time shout loudly and knock on everything that falls into their hands. And all this noise in order to "appease" the year that is coming ..
Hungary. On New Year's Eve you need to whistle
In Hungary, in the "fateful" first second of the New Year, they prefer to whistle - moreover, using not fingers, but children's pipes, horns, whistles. It is believed that it is they who drive away evil spirits from the dwelling and call for joy and prosperity. Preparing for the holiday, Hungarians do not forget about the magical power of New Year's dishes: beans and groh retain strength of mind and body, apples - beauty and love, nuts can protect from trouble, garlic - from diseases, and honey - sweeten life.
Czech Republic and Slovakia. Santa Claus in a lamb hat
A merry little man, dressed in a furry coat, a high sheepskin hat, with a box behind his back, comes to the Czech and Slovak children. His name is Mikulas. For those who studied well, he always has gifts.
Holland. Santa Claus arrives on a ship
Santa Claus arrives in Holland on a ship. Children joyfully meet him at the pier. Santa Claus loves funny jokes and surprises and often gives children marzipan fruits, toys, candy flowers.
Bulgaria. Three minutes of New Year's kisses
In Bulgaria, guests and relatives gather for the New Year at the festive table, and in all houses the lights go out for three minutes. The time when guests remain in the dark is called the minutes of New Year's kisses, the secret of which will be kept by the darkness.
Greece. Guests carry stones - large and small
In Greece, guests take with them a large stone, which they throw at the threshold, saying the words: "Let the wealth of the host be heavy, like this stone." And if they don’t get a big stone, they throw a small pebble with the words: “Let the thorn in the owner’s eye be as small as this stone.”
Sudan. Green walnut for happiness in the New Year
Residents of Sudan usually celebrate the New Year near the Nile River or other bodies of water. They believe that it will bring happiness and prosperity to their home. It is a great happiness for a Sudanese to find a green walnut on New Year's Eve. This promises great joy. And so that no one was offended, they began to scatter green nuts in advance.
Japan. Sunrise meeting
On the morning of January 1, all residents of cities and villages in Japan go outside to meet the sunrise. With the first rays of the sun, the Japanese congratulate each other on the coming year and exchange gifts. On New Year's Eve in Japan, they eat long noodles so that life is long.
Australia. Santa Claus on a surfboard, in swimming trunks and with a beard
Australians do not like to celebrate the New Year at home. All the festivities take place in restaurants and on the beach, since at this time of the year they have summer and it is very hot. Interestingly, Santa Claus appears in Australia. After all, in a hot country you can’t walk in a fur coat, so he sails on the surf in the same swimming trunks. But the beard remains the same attribute.
