Ahead Of New Year’s Eve, 5 Bizarre Traditions Followed Across The World To Mark This Day

Every community, place and even country has different ways of ringing in the new year. Ahead of New Year’s Eve, check out these bizarre traditional ways this day is celebrated around the world. Read on!

Europe

In European countries, people use fireworks to welcome the new year. However, a special tradition is followed in Europe that as soon as the clock strikes midnight on December 31, people can be seen kissing each other. Kissing on this occasion is considered to be lucky. This tradition has been ongoing since the 17th century. Usually, a dance is organised and people wear masks, which symbolise evil spirits. At midnight, the masks are removed and a new beginning is said to set in.

USA

If you go to New York’s Times Square on the evening of December 31, a huge crowd throngs over to the place. People crowd over at the place to watch a Ball drop. At 11:59 pm, the ball is dropped from the roof of One Times Square; it drops down a specifically designed flagpole.

Brazil and African Countries

In Brazil and African countries, there is a tradition of offering gifts to the sea goddess Imanja or Yemanja on New Year. People buy gifts and put them in a boat which is then pushed into the sea. Then, people jump into the sea when the waves come crashing. It is believed that each wave will be the harbinger of good things. This is their gesture to thank the Sea Goddess. They do not burn their back towards the sea during the celebrations as they believe it brings bad luck.

Scotland

In Scotland, there is a unique tradition called Hogmanay, which means the last day of the old year. It is believed that the first step of a person entering the house in the new year should be auspicious. Hence, after midnight, a person enters the threshold of a friend or neighbour with symbolic gifts like salt, coal, shortbread, whiskey and a black bun.

Greece

On New Year’s Day, all the members of the family visit the church. After prayers, they are offered onions. It is considered a symbol of good health, fertility and longevity. People hang onions on the doors of their homes to ward off evil.