15421 new year

When a new year is around, the whole world celebrates it like one big family. The ways of celebrations, however, may
vary from country to country. Read on and find out how New Year is celebrated and what games are played to make
the event merrier!

The first day of January marks the beginning of the new year in the USA. It is
the time to make new resolutions and celebrate the federal holiday with a lot of
pomp and show. The celebrations at Time Square, New York City are
particularly watched out worldwide to see how grand new year gala can get
around the world!
All New Year parties here, big or small, have a theme or dress code. All
attendees have to wear a mask, which they must uncover only once the clock
strikes midnight. Not to mention, the fresh arrival is given a roaring welcome
with opening of champagne bottles, which is an absolute must.
The following New Year day is generally celebrated with family at home. It is
also made special by either visiting loved ones or going out for a picnic or
playing football.

Though Pope Gregory III started the Gregorian Calendar in 1582, it was officially adopted in the UK only on the first of
January 1752. Ever since, it’s a much awaited festival in Britain, when people honor ancient traditions hand in hand
with contemporary ideas of celebrating new year around the world.
Among the popular ancient customs in UK practiced even today, “First-footing” is one that suggests that after
midnight, only a dark-haired male visitor should first enter the house carrying coal, bread and salt for good luck and
prosperity. In some parts of UK, it is considered ideal to give holy or mistletoe on New Year’s Eve to wish prosperity.
Giving gifts is a prominent tradition that lives on. Then there is a custom of being noisy in the new year. So the parties
are kept as noisy and dazzling as possible with bonfires, fire crackers, ringing bells and blowing whistles, horns &
trumpets.
Keeping details aside, people in UK like to party pretty much like everyone else enjoy themselves during new year
around the world. People here also attend themed parties, salsa dances and live performances to make celebrations
memorable. In addition, cruises to England are getting increasingly popular among citizens to enter the new year
partying away on the sea, watching the dazzling city skyline from a distance.

How is New Year celebrated in your country? What do you eat and
drink? What games do you play? Any special activities to celebrate the
last day of the year? Any traditions?