Here’s a look around the world at a few of the traditions of the many ways people celebrate the arrival of a New Year. 

Midnight Countdown and Ball Drop (Times Square) 
In New York City, people gather to watch the famous ball drop at Times Square at midnight. This tradition is broadcast worldwide and is followed by celebrations all over the country.

Eating 12 Grapes at Midnight (Spain)
In Spain and some parts of Latin America, people eat 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight, one for each chime of the clock. Each grape symbolizes good luck for the 12 months ahead.

First Footing (Scotland)
Scotland and Northern England: The tradition of "first footing" involves the first person to enter a home after midnight bringing good luck for the new year. Ideally, this person should be tall, and dark-haired, and bring gifts like coal, bread, or whiskey.

Burning an Effigy (Ecuador)
Many people create "Año Viejo" (Old Year) effigies, representing the old year, and burn them in bonfires at midnight. This symbolizes letting go of the past and making a fresh start.

Jumping off Chairs (Denmark)
People in Denmark jump off chairs at midnight, symbolizing "leaping" into the New Year and leaving behind bad luck or negative energy.

Wearing White (Brazil) 
On New Year's Eve, many people dress in white to symbolize peace and renewal. This is especially common at Rio de Janeiro's famous beach celebrations, where people often offer flowers to Yemanjá, the goddess of the sea.

Ring in the Bells (Japan & UK)
Japan: In Japan, the New Year is welcomed with a ceremonial bellringing at temples, where the bell is struck 108 times to rid the world of 108 human sins.
UK: The ringing of church bells at midnight is a common tradition in the UK, marking the arrival of the New Year.

Fireworks Displays
Global Tradition: Many countries ring in the New Year with large fireworks displays.
From Sydney's iconic New Year's Eve fireworks to the spectacular shows in cities like London, New York, and Dubai, fireworks symbolize a fresh start and celebration of the year ahead.

These traditions are the diverse ways people celebrate the start of a new year.  

Each culture carries its own meaning of renewal, joy, and hope for the future.

Although I seldom make the stroke of midnight - on the evening of December 31st, you will most certainly find me raising a glass of bubbly to welcome the wonders and mystery of the New Year.

Cheers & Happy New Year to You!

Diane 

PS – Earlier this year, our amazing Okanvango Delta Guides closed the day’s safari with a celebratory ‘sundowner.’ Just like the tradition of raising a glass on New Year's Eve – we celebrated the day’s wonders and welcomed the mystery of what tomorrow might bring