There is almost the end of 2014. We are on the doorstep of another new year, full of hopes, desires and beliefs that 2015 will be even more successful and better than the last. World will dispatch old and welcome the new year, each country has its own way, but all people around will have just one thought – to be happy. The New Year is one of the oldest of all holidays and was first observed in Babylon 4,000 years ago. Since then many traditions have changed. That is the reason why people around the world celebrate differently.
According to ancient authors, the celebration comes from celebrating the birth of the sun. In the process of history, such as changing the religious systems alsochangedcalendarsandwaysofsaving time.
Japan
The New Year in Japan last a whole day, from early morning when the house is cleaning through symbolic expulsion of “the dust from the past”. In that way home will be prepared for a successful and happy new year. Also it is important to resolve the conflict and problems from the past if you want a fresh and new beginning.
Image by Chie Gondo via Flickr
Image by tanakawho via Flickr
Image by Patrick via Flickr
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
In Brazil there is a tradition on the New Year to wear white clothing for happiness and peace for the year to come. It is like belief that white will ward off evil spirits. Brazilians also jump over one ocean wave every day of the week and throw flowers into the water to cheerful and joyful New Year.
Image by Mike Vondran via Flickr
Image by Luciano Joaquim via Flickr
London, England
Britons believe that they will be happy if the first guest who will come to the house is a man with gifts. While in other side, if their house is visited of female guest first, it is not a good sign.
Image by Paul Brocklehurst via Flickr
Image by Paul Brocklehurst via Flickr
Image by Veronica Aguilar via Flickr
China
In China, all the doors are decorated with red details, because red is a symbol of luck and happiness. Several days before the reception, Chinese clean their homes, the doors and windows are decorated with paper decorations which represent symbols of wealth, longevity and happy marriage with many children. Also, on that day, people are part of huge parade led by a silk glowing dragon, the Chinese symbol of strength.
Image by Schristia via Flickr
Image by Khedara ආරියරත්න 蒋龙 via Flickr
Image by skyseeker via Flickr
Philippines
Wearing polka dots on New Year’s Eve is typically for Filipinos. Many people eat round fruits such as oranges and grapefruits because round objects signify prosperity.
Image by Benson Kua via Flickr
