How the New Year is celebrated around the world. New Year: traditions of celebration around the world
New Year- a magical holiday celebrated all over the world. We all know and honor the traditions of celebrating the New Year in our country, but other countries of the world have their own traditions, many of which are very unusual and interesting, and we will tell you about them.
India
Very beautiful rituals of New Year's Eve in India. The inhabitants of northern India adorn themselves with white, pink, red and purple flowers. In central India, buildings are decorated with colorful, mostly orange flags. In western India, small lights are lit on rooftops. Hindus have their own way of giving gifts. For example, gifts for children are placed on a special tray. In the morning, the children close their eyes and lead to this tray.
Ireland
In Ireland, on the eve of the New Year, the doors of houses open wide, anyone who wishes can enter any house and become a welcome guest there. He will be seated in a place of honor, treated to a glass of good wine, not forgetting to say: "For peace in this house and throughout the world!" At half past eleven, the Irish go to the central square, sing, dance, have fun.
Italy
In Italy, on New Year's Eve, no one is surprised if someone gets rid of unnecessary things. Old flower pots, unnecessary furniture, clothes and trinkets fly right out the window. Italians believe that the more things left on the street, the more luck and money a generous New Year will bring.
Cuba
In Cuba, before the New Year, everyone fills their glasses with water, and when the clock strikes twelve, they pour it out through the open windows into the street. This means that the old new year has ended happily and the Cubans wish each other that the new year will be as clear and pure as water. And, of course, happy! The clock on New Year's Eve in Cuba strikes only 11 times. Since the 12th strike falls on New Year's Eve, the clock is given a rest and calmly celebrate the holiday with everyone.
Finland
The "face of the holiday" in Finland is the old man Frost, or, as the Finns themselves call him, Joulupukki. According to Finnish tradition, this winter old man brings rods to naughty children, and gifts to obedient ones. In addition, the housewives cook a festive plum jelly. Unmarried girls throw a slipper over their shoulder on New Year's Eve. If he falls with his toe to the door - be a wedding.
Netherlands
In the Netherlands and Belgium, the first day of the new year is taken very seriously. People try to behave correctly, not to borrow money and wear only new things. It is believed that a person himself determines his future for the whole next year. If the first day of the New Year is fun, then this will be the whole year.
Another tradition that the inhabitants of these countries adhere to is the election of the king of the holiday. Women prepare a cake in which a bean or a pea is placed. It is the person who gets a piece of baking with a bean who becomes the king for the whole New Year's Eve, then chooses the queen and retinue.
Burma
Since the New Year in Burma is at its hottest time, its arrival is celebrated with a water festival. The spectacle, it must be said, is amusing: when people meet, they pour water on each other from different dishes. But dousing with water does not offend anyone, because this ritual is a kind of wish for happiness in the New Year.
Denmark
In Denmark, on New Year's Eve, it is customary to protect the forest from poachers. On the eve of the holiday, foresters process forest spruces with a special composition, which has absolutely no smell in the cold. and at room temperature emits a suffocating odor.
Austria
In Austria, it is considered an unwritten commandment to hear the solemn sound of the "Peace Bell" installed in St. Stephen's Cathedral on New Year's Eve in Vienna. Thousands of people gather on Cathedral Square on December 31st. In the old days, in this country, it was considered a good omen to meet a chimney sweep, touch him and get dirty. It was believed that it brings great happiness and good luck.
Australia
Quite exotic New Year celebrations are held in Australia. Due to the lack of snow, Christmas trees, deer and other usual attributes of the holiday, Santa Claus appears in a swimming suit, on a special brightly decorated surfboard on the beaches of Sydney. Moreover, observing the traditions of the Old World, his clothes always contain a white beard and a red cap with a pompom at the end.
Bulgaria
In Bulgaria, on New Year's Eve, they buy dogwood sticks - an indispensable attribute of the New Year's holiday. On the first of January, children, approaching relatives and friends, lightly hitting with chopsticks, congratulate them on the holiday. With the last stroke of the clock of the outgoing year, the lights go out in all houses for 3 minutes: these are the minutes of New Year's kisses that replace toasts. Bulgarians rejoice if someone sneezes at the table. They say it brings good luck.
Japan
In Japan, New Year is celebrated on January 1st. The Japanese are afraid that along with happiness and wealth, evil spirits will enter the house. To protect themselves from trouble, people hang bundles of straw in front of the entrance to the house. As soon as the New Year comes, the Japanese laugh happily.
Brazil
On New Year's Eve in Brazil, thousands of candles are lit on the sand on an ocean beach. Women in long dresses enter the water and throw flower petals into the waves of the ocean surf.
Vietnam
On New Year's Eve in Vietnam, it is customary to release live carp into rivers and ponds. According to legend, a god swims on the back of a carp, who goes to heaven on New Year's Eve to tell there how people live on Earth.
Greece
In Greece, there is a custom according to which, exactly at midnight, the head of the family goes out into the courtyard and smashes a pomegranate fruit against the wall. If its grains scatter around the yard, the family will live happily in the new year. Going to visit, the Greeks bring a mossy stone with them as a gift, and leave it in the hosts' room. They say: "Let the money of the owners be as heavy as this stone."
Portugal
In Portugal, on the eve of Christmas, it is customary to give a "Christmas cake" with almonds and candied fruit. By the way, surprises are also baked into such a muffin - a figurine or a medal. The one who finds the whole year will be lucky, peace and tranquility will reign in the house!
Spain
In Spain, before the New Year, boys and girls draw lots - the names of people of both sexes are written on scraps of paper. Girls learn the names of their "grooms", and young people - "brides". Sometimes the procedure of lots is done near churches, and the resulting couples behave like lovers until the end of the Christmas season.
Sweden
In Sweden, on New Year's Eve, it is customary to break dishes at the neighbors' doors.
19.12.2018, 09:52
Glasses of champagne, basins of Russian salad and herring under a fur coat, the president's speech on TV... Tired of celebrating the New Year the old fashioned way? Then, perhaps, it is worth borrowing interesting traditions from residents of other countries.
Sweden
In the homeland of Carlson, on the eve of the holiday, the kids must choose the queen of light, Lucia. She is dressed in a snow-white outfit, her head is crowned with a diadem with lighted candles. The queen gives gifts to children, and various goodies to pets: sour cream for a cat, a bone for a dog, carrots for a donkey. On New Year's Eve, the streets are illuminated with colorful illuminations.
Colombia
In Colombia, during the New Year's carnival, the outgoing year is celebrated. He walks on huge stilts and amuses children with funny stories. The local fabulous grandfather is Papa Pasquale. He masterfully organizes fireworks.
On the eve of the holiday, a puppet parade is held on the streets of the capital: hundreds of jesters, witches and other fairy-tale heroes, fixed on the roofs of cars, walk along the streets of the most ancient district of Bogota - Candelaria, saying goodbye to the inhabitants.
Nepal
In Nepal, the holiday is celebrated at dawn. At night, during the full moon period, locals make fires and throw their old things there. Tomorrow starts a bright action - the Festival of Colors. People paint the body with interesting drawings, then sing and dance in the streets.
Hungary
In Hungary, in the first second of the new year they whistle. Interestingly, they do this not with the help of fingers, but using children's whistles, horns, pipes.
According to legend, these tools drive away evil spirits from housing, calling for happiness and prosperity. When preparing for the holiday, the Hungarians also take into account the miraculous power of dishes: legumes support fortitude, apples give love and youth, garlic protects against diseases, nuts protect against misfortune, and honey sweetens life.
Iran
In Iran, the New Year holiday is celebrated on March 22 at 00:00. From the first second gunshots are heard. People hold silver coins as a symbol of the inseparable stay in their native land for the next 12 months. On the first day of the coming year, old clay utensils are broken in the house and replaced with new ones.
South Africa
In Johannesburg, there is a custom to welcome the coming year by throwing all kinds of objects out of the windows - from bottles to large furniture.
South African police have already blocked the Hillbrow quarter, appealing to local residents with a convincing request not to throw refrigerators out of windows. Because of this peculiar New Year's tradition, the quarter is recognized as the most dangerous in the city.
Ecuador
In Ecuador, at 00:00, dolls are burned at the stake to the "widow's cry". Usually, the representatives of the stronger sex disguise themselves as widows, putting on dresses, pulling wigs and making bright makeup.
Those who want to spend the whole year on exciting trips should run around the house with a suitcase in their hands during the chiming clock. From the outside it must look pretty hilarious!
Thirsty for wealth at midnight, you need to pull on yellow shorts. And if you are more interested in success on the personal front, they put on red underwear.
In order to leave all the sorrows in the outgoing year, the locals throw a glass of water into the street: together with it, all sorrows scatter into thousands of small fragments.
France
Local Santa Claus with a typical French name Pere Noel puts gifts in children's shoes on New Year's Eve. The lucky one who gets a piece of the festive bean pie is given the title of "bean king", and on New Year's Eve everyone must follow his orders.
Santons are placed near the festive tree - figurines made of wood or clay. The owner always clinks glasses with a wine barrel, congratulating her on the holiday and drinking to a bountiful harvest.
Thailand
The Thai New Year symbolizes the change of year according to the ancient Indian calendar and the arrival of the rainy season. Locals treat Buddhist monks with festive dishes. A bath with rose and jasmine petals is performed over the Buddha statue. It is unlikely that anyone will be able to get out of the water these days: the Thais douse everyone they meet with water from basins, hoses and water pistols, while smearing them with talc and white clay. So they are cleansed, updated and get rid of the accumulated negative emotions.
Panama
In Panama at 00:00 something unimaginable begins: bells ring, sirens howl, cars rumble. The locals scream heart-rendingly and knock on everything that comes to hand. Noise exceeding all conceivable and unimaginable decibels is produced to appease the coming year.
New Year's traditions in different countries are amazingly diverse. If there is a desire to implement one of them, the main thing is to remember about security and the peculiarities of the national mentality.
New Year in Russia is celebrated on the night of December 31 to January 1. Traditionally, it is customary to celebrate it with family and loved ones. Young people prefer noisy parties in clubs. On the main squares of cities, on the eve of the New Year, a spruce is lit, near which the main ...
The Germans celebrate the New Year, as in most countries of the world - on the night of December 31 to January 1. Unlike the Slavic countries, in Germany it is not considered a family holiday. Instead of a home feast, young people prepare in advance for parties in clubs and bars. The older generation prefers...
The Spaniards, like most peoples of the world, celebrate the New Year on the night of December 31 to January 1. Unlike Christmas, New Year's Eve in this country is usually celebrated not in the home family circle, but in large and noisy companies. Residents of Spain gather in the streets and squares, arrange ...
New Year in the United States of America is celebrated on the night of December 31st to January 1st. In popularity, this holiday is inferior to Catholic Christmas (December 25). Unlike Christmas, which is a family celebration, most Americans celebrate the New Year in public, in the company of friends on ...
New Year in France is celebrated on the night of December 31st to January 1st. The French meet him in the circle of close friends and relatives. They arrange home gatherings, go to parties in clubs or restaurants, have fun, sing and dance on the streets of cities in fancy dress. Heart...
New Year in Italy is celebrated on the night of December 31st to January 1st. It has the names "head of the year" (Capodanno), the supper of St. Sylvester. Italians spend this holiday noisily and cheerfully, in the company of friends in clubs, restaurants or on the streets and squares of cities. New Year's Eve...
New Year in the UK is celebrated on the night of December 31st to January 1st. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, it is less popular than Christmas. In Scotland, they love and honor the New Year more. In this part of the Kingdom he is called Hogmanay. Its celebration takes as much as 3 days (from December 30 to 1...
New Year in Finland is celebrated on the night of December 31st to January 1st. In the coldest country in Europe, during the winter holidays, an atmosphere of warmth and fun reigns. New Year's Eve the older generation and large families spend at home at the solemn table. Young people prefer to celebrate the New Year in ...
New Year in Ukraine is celebrated on the night of December 31 to January 1. Most people in the country celebrate this holiday in the family circle. Close and dear people gather at the festive table, drink champagne, give gifts to each other and say wishes for the next year. On the eve...
New Year in Kazakhstan is celebrated twice. According to European tradition, its offensive is celebrated on the night of December 31 to January 1. In accordance with Eastern traditions, it is celebrated on March 21-23 and is called Nauryz meiramy. New Year January 1 Favorite place to celebrate the New Year ...
New Year in Belarus is celebrated on the night of December 31 to January 1. Most of the inhabitants of the country meet him in the family circle. After midnight, young people go with friends to the main squares of cities, to parties in clubs or restaurants. The older generation prefers to stay at home and watch...
New Year in Turkey is celebrated twice. According to the Gregorian calendar, the beginning of the year falls on January 1st. This celebration is popular in large cities of the south-west of the country and is celebrated in the style of European traditions. According to the ancient Turkic custom, the New Year is celebrated on March 21, the day of the spring...
India holds the record for the most New Year celebrations in a calendar year. Christians celebrate it on January 1, Muslims celebrate it on the first day of the month of Muharram (according to the Islamic calendar). Some residents of the country celebrate it in late October - early November, on the day of Diwali....
New Year in Japan is celebrated on the night of December 31st to January 1st. The celebration takes a whole week - from December 28 to January 3. The Japanese celebrate the New Year calmly, solemnly, with the observance of traditions and rituals. During the winter holidays, a special atmosphere reigns in the capital of the country. Per...
Chinese New Year is celebrated twice. According to European tradition, it is celebrated on the night of December 31 to January 1 and is called Yuan-dan. Residents of the country celebrate it in the family circle, modestly and calmly. Since ancient times, the New Year in China has been celebrated on the second new moon after the winter ...
The onset of the New Year in Brazil is traditionally celebrated on the night of December 31 to January 1. Locals call this holiday Confraternização or Reveillon, which means "fraternization". The participants of the celebration call each other brothers and sisters, hug and ...
For all people. Each region has its own customs and traditions associated with this celebration.
It is also noteworthy that in every state the New Year is celebrated at its own time. Many nations, including Russians, live according to the Gregorian calendar. They celebrate the New Year on the night of December 31st to January 1st. Taking into account standard time, the inhabitants of the island of Kiribati in the Pacific Ocean are the first to start celebrating here. But in Europe, Christmas is considered the main holiday, which is celebrated on the night of December 24-25. In China, the holiday is timed to coincide with the winter new moon, which occurs between January 21 and February 21. The traditions of celebrating the New Year in different countries are very interesting. Further we will talk about them.
New Year - a holiday from ancient times
How old this holiday is, no one can say for sure now. But it is known that it existed already in the 3rd millennium BC. The tradition of celebrating the New Year on January 1 was established by the Roman ruler Julius Caesar. In those days, in ancient Rome, this day was especially honored by the god Janus - the lord of choice, doors and all beginnings. He was depicted with two faces: one was turned back (the past year), and the other forward (new year). As now, their traditions of celebrating the New Year in different countries of the world existed many centuries ago. Then people firmly believed that their lives were controlled by higher powers. This is reflected in traditions and customs. So, in our country, Santa Claus had predecessors - the spirit of Zimnik, the evil deity Karachun, the Slavic god of bad weather and storms Pozvizd. As a rule, they were afraid. They brought with them hail, blizzards, destruction and death. The ancient Celts celebrated Samhain on the night of October 31st. This day was considered mystical. People believed that the border between the world of the living and the world of the dead was being erased at that time. A horde of wickedness descends on the earth. In Samhain it was necessary to burn bonfires, sing, walk and have fun. Then the evil spirit will not dare to come out. Later, this holiday was replaced by the well-known Halloween.
New year in Russia
Our people love this holiday. After all, he is the most kind, cheerful, bright. It is noteworthy that on January 1 in Russia it began to be celebrated since 1700. Then Tsar Peter 1 issued a corresponding decree. True, our country then lived according to the Julian calendar. Since 1919, Russia began to be celebrated in accordance with the Gregorian calendar. The most important attribute of the celebration with us is a decorated Christmas tree. On the evening of December 31, all relatives and friends in many families gather to spend the old year and meet the new one. Traditional dishes on the table on this holiday: Olivier salads and herring under a fur coat, cabbage rolls, dumplings, fried chicken and, of course, tangerines. On this day, the good Santa Claus comes to the children. He is dressed in a red, blue or silver coat with patterns, a hat and large mittens. A long, gray beard, shaggy eyebrows whitened from frost, rosy cheeks ... Who does not recognize Santa Claus? He has a staff in his hand, and a large bag of gifts behind his back. Sometimes he is accompanied by his granddaughter - the beautiful Snegurochka.
All the children are waiting for this event for a whole year, sending wishes for future gifts and gifts. These are the traditions we have for celebrating the New Year. It has its own meaning for children in different countries.
China
If in Russia the New Year holiday is associated with winter cold, snow, frost, then in other countries it has a different meaning. So, in China, it is called the Spring Festival and is celebrated between January 21 and February 21, when the moon completes its full cycle, and the new moon comes. Celebrations here last 15 days and end. Both adults and children participate in the events. From the very morning, people clean their houses, because they believe that cleanliness is not a place for evil spirits. The streets at this time dazzle in the eyes from bright festive clothes, fair goods and lights. In the evening, people gather in a close family circle for dinner, where they often give each other not gifts, but red envelopes with money. It is customary to present such presents even to children and work colleagues. When it gets dark, people take to the streets to launch salutes, festive fireworks, and burn incense. Chinese unusual traditions of celebrating the New Year are interesting. In different countries of the world, customs are usually associated with folk epics. China is no exception. The inhabitants of this country believe in an ancient legend about the terrible monster Nian, who came on New Year's Eve to eat all the people's livestock, supplies and grain, and sometimes even children. One day, people saw how Nian was frightened of a child dressed in red.
Since then, they began to hang red lanterns and scrolls near their dwellings on New Year's Eve to scare away the beast. Festive fireworks and incense are also considered good deterrents for this monster.
Bright India
The traditions of celebrating the New Year in different countries of the world are original and mysterious. In India, the main festival of the year is called Diwali, or the Festival of Lights. It is celebrated in late October or early November. What can be seen on the streets of Indian cities on this day? All houses and statues of gods and animals are decorated with bright flowers, lights, lanterns and lit candles. The holiday is dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi - the embodiment of wealth, abundance, prosperity, good luck and happiness. On this day, it is customary to give interesting gifts to everyone. Gifts for children are placed on a special tray intended for this, and then they are brought to him with their eyes closed. In the evening, when it gets dark, people go outside to set off festive fireworks and firecrackers.
land of the rising sun
Japan also has its own traditions of celebrating the New Year. In different countries of the world, treats are prepared for children on this day. Japan is no exception. The sweet delicacy of mochi is loved by both children and adults. These are round small loaves or cakes made of rice flour, decorated on top with an orange fruit. To give mochi means to wish a person prosperity and wealth in the coming year.
The Japanese also eat boiled seaweed, fish pie, sweet potato puree with chestnuts, and sweet soybeans on this day. And, of course, the celebration of the New Year is not complete without songs and dances. In Japan, there is a tradition to get together and play games: hanetsuki (a game of shuttlecock), a board game with sugoroku chips, uta-garuta and others. The streets are crowded during the holidays. The shops are full of New Year's souvenirs: hamaimi (arrows that drive away evil spirits from the house), kumade (bamboo rake like a bear's paw), takarabune (boats with rice for good luck). As a rule, on a holiday, children here, as well as in China, are given not gifts, but money put in a special envelope called potibukuro.
In France and England
We consider what traditions exist for celebrating the New Year in different countries. I wonder how this day is celebrated in Europe? For example, in England, houses are decorated not only with Christmas trees, but also with mistletoe sprigs. They are hung everywhere, even on lamps and chandeliers. The front door is also decorated with a wreath of mistletoe. It is believed that this plant brings happiness to the house and protects its inhabitants from diseases. In France, not Santa Claus comes to children, but the old man Per Noel in a fur coat, a red cap and wooden shoes. He moves on a donkey. Children believe that Per Noel climbs into the chimney and puts presents for them in shoes specially prepared for this in front of the fireplace.
Adults on this day dance in red caps, fool around, have fun, joke, sprinkle each other with confetti. As you can see, the traditions of celebrating the New Year are similar in Europe. In different countries in English, the shortest greeting sounds like this: “Happy New Year!”, Which means: “Happy New Year!”.
Italy
In this country, the celebration begins on January 6th. On the eve of the holiday, children hang stockings near the fireplace. They hope to receive many delicious and wonderful gifts. Only it is not Santa Claus who gives them here, as we do, but a kind and affectionate fairy named Befana. Children believe that she flies on a broomstick at night, opens all the doors in the house with a special golden key and fills their stockings with all kinds of gifts. Befana loves obedient and well-mannered children. The one who was only naughty and mischievous for a whole goal will receive only a black ember and a handful of ash as a reward. Adult Italians don't believe in witches. But they are convinced that the New Year is the time to pay tribute to centuries-old traditions. For example, the inhabitants of this country throw old and unnecessary things out of the house to the sound of the clock, thus getting rid of the problems of the old year. They believe that new items purchased to replace discarded ones will bring them good luck and happiness. Here, as in many countries, on the eve of the holiday, people give gifts to each other. In the provinces, you may be presented with an olive sprig in water taken from a spring. It is believed that such a symbolic gift brings happiness. Lentils, nuts and grapes are always present on the table on this day in every family. In order for good luck to accompany in all matters for a whole year, you must definitely eat them. It is also worth noting that Italians are very superstitious people. They believe in all sorts of superstitions. For example, it is believed that if a priest meets the first on the way in the morning after New Year's Eve, then the year will be unlucky. If a child gets in the way, this is also not good. But the hunchbacked grandfather, who came to the meeting, promises health and good luck for the whole next year.
In Ireland
We continue to travel around Europe. The traditions of celebrating the New Year in different countries have much in common. In English, congratulations on the triumph can also be heard in Ireland. Here this holiday is considered not only family. On the eve of it, the doors of all houses open wide. Anyone can enter any of them and join the celebration. The guest will certainly be seated in the most honorable place, the best delicacies will be placed in front of him and toasts will be made to “Peace in the world!”. Irish New Year is hard to imagine without the traditional treat here, which is called seed cake. It's a cumin cake. The local housewives also prepare a special pudding for the festive table. After a rich feast, everyone goes for a walk outside. By half past eleven, the Irish gather in the central square of the city, on which there is a large Christmas tree. The real fun begins with songs, dances, jokes.
Bulgaria
There are traditions for celebrating the New Year here. In different countries, treats are prepared for children on this day. In Bulgaria, this can be candied pumpkin, apples in caramel or homemade marmalade. Traditional New Year's dish - bannitsa. It is puff. And in Bulgaria there is a tradition to put a loaf of bread in which there is a coin on the festive table. After the loaf is cut, everyone looks for a coin in their piece. After the feast, both adults and children here make dogwood sticks, decorating them with dried fruits, nuts, garlic heads, coins and tying them with red thread. They are called sourworts. Everyone in the family must be hit with this item in order to bring him health and good luck. Sometimes they go to neighbors with suruvs to wish them all the best. And then the youth pours out into the street with songs and dances.
When the clock on the city tower strikes midnight, marking the beginning of the year, the kissing lights are turned off throughout the city for three minutes. There are even competitions: who kisses the most.
In Cuba
We are used to celebrating the New Year with snow and frost. I wonder how this holiday is held where it is always summer? The customs of celebrating the New Year in different countries of the tropical zone, such as, for example, Cuba, are original. Here, on this day, a coniferous tree, an araucaria, or even just a palm tree, is dressed up. Instead of champagne, people drink rum, diluting it with orange juice, liquor and adding ice. In Cuba, there is an interesting tradition on the eve of the celebration to fill all the buckets, jugs and basins in the house with water. At midnight, this water is poured out of the windows. It is believed that in this way people protect their home from adversity and misfortune. Before the clock strikes 12, everyone must have time to eat twelve grapes and make a wish. Then you can be sure that the whole year will be accompanied by good luck, peace and prosperity. There is also a Santa Claus here. But he is not alone, like us. There are three of them in Cuba: Balthazar, Gaspar and Melchior.
On the eve of the holiday, children write notes to them with the wishes of what gifts they would like to receive from them. All night long, Cubans walk and have fun, sing, joke and pour water on each other. Here they believe that it brings happiness to a person and charges with positive energy.
Sultry Brazil
The life of this country has always been closely connected with the ocean. In local folklore, the goddess of the seas Iemanzha played a leading role for many centuries. It is with her that the local customs of celebrating the New Year are associated. In different countries of the world on this day, people cast magic spells and perform ritual ceremonies. In Brazil, on the eve of the holiday, the inhabitants try to appease the goddess Iemanja so that she will show favor and patience to them throughout the next year. She is depicted as a beautiful woman in long blue robes with loose hair the color of moonlit silver paths. Many Brazilian women try to dress the same way on this day. Iemanja is very fond of fun and dancing. Therefore, people go to the beach in the evening, sing, walk, congratulate each other and perform a magic ritual for happiness. It consists in sending small rafts into the ocean with fruits, rice, sweets, mirrors, scallops and lighted candles. While doing this, people pray and sing ritual songs, trying to appease the formidable goddess. Women in long robes throw bright flowers into the waters of the ocean, making wishes. A half-hour fireworks display ends. These are the unusual traditions of celebrating the New Year in different countries, where there is eternal summer.
In Australia
Tired of snow and cold? Where to go on We continue to consider the traditions of celebrating the New Year in different countries. A comic performance is arranged, as a rule, everywhere. Australians celebrate this holiday among the first on the planet. Identity here, as a rule, takes place in the open air. Beach parties, loud songs, fun dancing, fantastic fireworks, music festivals with the participation of world stars: all this can be seen in Melbourne and Sydney on New Year's Eve. Santa Claus in a red hat and pants on a surfboard on the beach... You can only see this in Australia.
Exactly at midnight, the streets of cities are filled with the sounds of car horns and the ringing of bells. So the Australians are trying to "ring" the new year to visit them. As you can see, the traditions of celebrating the New Year in different countries are very different.
Colombia
To remember the summer and enjoy its beauties in the winter, let's go to Colombia. It has its own interesting customs of celebrating the New Year. In different countries of the world, the main character is Santa Claus, whose arrival marks the beginning of the new year. And in Colombia, the main character of the holiday is the Old Year, which walks the streets and amuses local children. Often his role is played by a scarecrow on a long stick, which is burned on the beach at midnight. It is believed that after that the old year left the country forever and gave way to a new one. There is also a Santa Claus here. His name is Papa Pasquale. He is dressed in a red coat and hat, just like our main hero of the holiday. He only walks on long stilts, which makes both adults and children incredibly funny.
Seeing him, the inhabitants of the city begin to whistle, throw firecrackers and fire guns into the air. He does not bring gifts. But everyone knows that Papa Pasquale is a master of fireworks. It is believed that it is he who decorates the New Year's sky with colorful fireworks and lights.
new year in africa
The traditions of celebrating the New Year in different countries are interesting. Curiously, how do they celebrate the celebration in African countries? After all, it is this mainland that is considered the birthplace of this holiday. If we decorate a Christmas tree for the New Year, then palm trees are often decorated here, and not only with toys, but also with fresh fruits.
In many African countries, there is a tradition of throwing green nuts through the streets. It is believed that the one who finds such a nut will definitely be happy this year. As a rule, this holiday in the countries of the "black" continent is celebrated on January 1. But there are exceptions, for example, Ethiopia. Here the celebration takes place on September 1. This time in the country is marked by the end of the rainy period and the beginning of the time of fruit ripening. On the eve of the main holiday of the year, old and young try to swim in the river. People believe that in this way they leave all sins in the past and enter the new year with a pure soul. The holiday itself takes place with songs, festivities and dances around a set on fire of a sheaf of palm branches, decorated with yellow flowers.
There are traditions of celebrating the New Year in different countries. Photos, interesting facts from many parts of the world: everything can be found in our article.
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.
