In China, homes are cleaned to sweep away bad luck, and red decorations are used to usher prosperity. Following these preparations, families gather for a reunion dinner on New Year’s Eve, enjoying dishes like dumplings and niangao, symbolizing prosperity. Then Elders give red envelopes filled with money to children for good luck, and at midnight, fireworks and firecrackers are set off to ward off evil spirits. Traditional lion and dragon dances are performed, adding vibrancy to the festivities. People will visit relatives and friends to exchange good wishes and gifts, as many families watch the Spring Festival Gala on television.

The celebrations culminate with the Lantern Festival on the 15th day, where lanterns are lit and released into the sky, symbolizing the letting go of the past year and welcoming new beginnings.

For Scotland, the Hogmanay celebration begins with vibrant fire festivals and the cherished “first-footing” tradition, where the first visitor of the year brings gifts and good luck. After these initial festivities, the celebrations continue with street parties in cities like Edinburgh, featuring live music, dancing, and spectacular fireworks.

They illuminate the streets with torchlights generating a firework of grand displays. People in community centres and homes dance Ceilidh a traditional dance to bring them together. On New Year’s Day, the brave participate in the “Loony Dook,” plunging into the freezing waters of the River Forth to welcome the New Year. The celebrations often extend into January 2nd, a public holiday in Scotland, allowing for continued festivities and family gatherings.

In Spain, after their custom of eating twelve grapes at midnight—one for each tick of the clock to ensure a year of good luck—the celebrations continue with lively festivities. Many people head to local plazas or streets to join in communal parties, dancing, and fireworks displays. Families and friends then gather to enjoy festive meals which include traditional Spanish dishes, such as tapas and seafood.

The celebrations are filled with joy, music, and dancing, often lasting until early the morning. The following day, January 1st, is a public holiday, giving everyone time to relax and recover from the night’s festivities. This vibrant continuation of New Year’s Eve celebrations highlights the Spanish love for community, good food, and merrymaking. 

In the United States, after the Times Square ball drop, celebrations continued with people attending parties, watching more fireworks displays, and celebrating until early the morning. The following day, many enjoy a restful start to the New Year, often watching parades and football games. As for Brazil, after offering flowers to Yemanja and enjoying the spectacular fireworks, the festivities continue on the beaches with music, dancing, and socializing. The next day serves as a time for relaxation and reflection, with many people spending time with family and friends, this is also seen in Cape Town, after the lively street parades and dazzling fireworks, the celebrations continue with music, dancing, and social gatherings that last into the night. The next day, people often relax with family and friends, enjoying barbecues and reflecting on the festivities. 

In Nigeria, after the church services and lively celebrations, communities come together to share meals and spend quality time with loved ones.

For Australia, as they are the first to usher in the new year, Sydney’s Harbour fireworks are world-famous, attracting visitors from all over to witness the breathtaking display.

And In New Zealand, after welcoming the New Year with traditional Maori ceremonies and festive events, the celebrations often continue with outdoor activities, barbecues, and beach outings. People spend time with loved ones, enjoying the summer weather and reflecting on the new beginnings.