When one thinks of New Year’s Eve in the United States, he or she usually thinks of Times Square and the ball that drops to signify the New Year. However, there are many different ways that people across the globe celebrate the coming of a new year. As we Americans celebrate, many other countries follow their own traditions many hours before the NY ball drops. What are these celebrations? Well let us find out!
As the first country to celebrate New Year’s Eve, Australia does not disappoint. Major Australian cities hold parades and provide music and entertainment. Much like in the U.S., Australia invites celebrities to herald in the year. There are also balls to celebrate the occasion with themes such as masquerade or formal wear. What a way to get everyone excited for the year to come!
Right as Australia’s festivities seem to end, India’s begin. The people of India dress with lots of colors and indulge in activities such as singing and playing games. Various events around the country are televised so that the people can celebrate the year with their close family members at home. Celebrities also host concerts in major cities such as Mumbai.
When the festivities leave Asia, they populate all of Europe. Italy celebrates the New Year by having a special dinner of lentils, signifying wealth and fortune, and the sausages cotechino and zampone while Italians watch specials on TV about the past year. Most people in the United Kingdom spend New Year’s quietly and wait until the final few minutes of the year before turning on the TV or radio to watch or listen to the fireworks. They then sing “Auld Lang Syne” while hugging people who could be complete strangers.