New Year 2024: Unique traditions from across the globe to ignite the festive season

New Year's is finally here. The most joyous time, where people from different communities come together and start afresh. As the clock strikes midnight on New year’s eve, communities around the world will celebrate the start of a new year with unique traditions. From New York City to Spain, every place on this planet celebrates the New Year with a rare yet unique tradition. 

Here are a few of them. 

Times Square ball drop

This tradition dates back to 1907. Hundreds of thousands of people pack Times Square, as they wait for hours before midnight. According to Time Square’s official website, an estimated more than one billion people watch the ball drop on TV. The program features high-profile TV presenters and celebrity musicians. This year’s program will be presented by host Ryan Seacrest and singer Rita Ora. It will feature musical performances from Paul Anka, Flo Rida, Megan Thee Stallion, Jelly Roll, Sabrina Carpenter, and more. 

First footing in Scotland 

This tradition is from Scotland, where New Year’s eve is known as Hogmanay. The tradition is about literally the first foot to enter someone’s home after midnight. This is done to ensure good luck. According to the ritual, the first visitor should traditionally be a tall, dark-haired male bringing pieces of coal, shortbread, salt, a black bun and whiskey.

Japan - Ringing bell 108 times 

In Japan, Buddhist temples ring bells 108 times because in Buddhism, it is believed that there are 108 types of earthly desires, and each strike of the bell will remove one desire. The tradition is called Joya no Kane.

Hanging onions in Greece 

Families in Greece go to church on New year’s day. After the service, they find an onion that they hang on the doors or somewhere in their homes. This comes as a symbol of good health, fertility, and longevity.

Eating 12 grapes in Spain 

People in Spain celebrate by popping 12 grapes in their mouth. This is done one for each chime of the clock marking midnight. This is supposed to bring good luck for the year ahead. The tradition dates back more than a century.