Almost every in the world celebrates New Year Eve. In Dubai, the day comes with massive traffic jams as everyone heads out to watch the fireworks at the Burj Khalifa, or to one of the countless parties across the city.
But not every celebration is as grandiose as the UAE’s. Every culture brings a different way of revelling the end of a year, and they may not be over the top, but they’re equally as incredible. Tradition runs high during the occasion, and if you’re looking to ring in the new year with a different kind of bang, here are a few ways to bring some good luck in to the new year.
Wear red underwear
Whilst the traditions roots are debatable (some believe that its roots are Chinese), Italians ring in the new year by sporting the colour red. And sexiness has nothing to do with it. The undergarment is an auspice of vitality, fertility and positive energy, and is only worn for the day. It is typically received as a present, and is thrown away the day after.
Only use round things
It’s pretty common to wish for prosperity for the new year, but it takes on a whole new meaning in the Philippines. Traditionally, Filipinos like to surround themselves with round things in representation of coins. You’re supposed to only wear round clothing, eat round food, and use round furniture.
Melt horseshoes
Horseshoes carry various symbols across the world—and they typically represent luck. In Finland, people usually melt them for the new year. Horseshoes are melted in a pan, then poured into cold water. The metal then solidifies, and the resulting shape is used to predict the year’s fortune.
Eat Mochi and count to 108
Mochi is a classic Japanese New Year’s cake. And across the nation, you’ll hear 108 bells go off at temples to mark the new year. It’s a Buddhist practice called ‘joya no kane’, with 108 symbolising the number of human desires according to Buddhist tradition.
Party with millions at the beach
No one does New Year’s Eve like Brazilians. They throw one of the world’s biggest parties. Millions of people head to Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Copacabana beach for the party of the decade.
