10 New Year's traditions from around the world to celebrate the start of 2026

Dec 31, 2025 etimes.in

Resolutions and traditions to begin 2026 with

A new year symbolises hope, new beginnings and possibilities. Here we list New Year's traditions from around the world to welcome 2026 on a new note: Canva

Spain: Eat twelve grapes

In Spain, eating 12 grapes on New Year's midnight is considered auspicious. The 12 grapes represent the 12 months, and eating them at midnight is believed to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming months. Canva

Japan: Ring temple bells

In Japan, people ring temple bells 108 times on New Year's Eve. The Japanese believe that doing this cleanses sins, invites peace, and welcomes spiritual renewal for everyone. Canva

Scotland: First-footing tradition

In Scotland, people practice first-footing, which means welcoming the first visitor at their home after midnight. They believe this brings luck, warmth, and prosperity to their home for the coming year. Canva

Denmark: Throw old plates

In Denmark, people throw old plates at their friends’ doors. The Danes believe it shows their affection, and also brings good fortune to them throughout the new year. Canva

Brazil: Jump seven waves

In Brazil, people jump seven ocean waves while making wishes for luck, protection, and positive energy in the coming year. Canva

Philippines: Display round fruits

People in the Philippines follow the display of round fruits on New Year's Eve to bring in money, abundance, and prosperity in the coming year. Canva

Ireland: Throwing bread

Ireland has a unique New Year's Eve tradition wherein families throw bread (usually leftovers from Christmas) against the walls and doors of their homes.This symbolises removing bad luck and evil spirits, and welcoming the new year with good luck. Canva

Latin American countries: Carrying an empty suitcase

In some Latin American countries-- including Mexico and Colombia-- people walk around with an empty suitcase either inside their home or even outdoors on New Year's Eve. They believe doing this would invite travel, adventures, and new opportunities in the coming year. Canva

Greece: Smashing pomegranate

In Greece, people smash a pomegranate at the doorstep on New Year's Eve.The Greeks believe this would helps them attract luck, fertility, and prosperity in the new year. Canva

Russia: Keeping 12 seconds of silence

The Russians have a tradition of reflecting on the year that went by keeping a 12-second silence in the minutes leading up to midnight. They make wishes for the coming year during this time, to start it on a good and positive note. Canva

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