All Russians know about this New Year's tradition: to cherished wish is fulfilled, you need to write it on a piece of paper and while the chimes are striking, burn it, throw the ashes into a glass of champagne and drink it to the bottom. But how does the New Year celebration happen in other countries, what customs, traditions, rituals and signs are there? In this article, we will tell you about how foreigners celebrate the holiday, not under a Christmas tree, but under a palm tree, holding a glass of rum or tequila in their hand instead of champagne.
New Year in Cuba it is loud, fun and bright, just like other holidays. After all, Cubans are lively and passionate people. The most the main task Cubans on New Year's Eve, fill all the dishes in the house with water. When the clock strikes, this water must be poured out the window onto the street, while wishing your family and friends that their year will be as clear and clean as water. In this case, everything needs to be done so that at the last twelfth stroke of the clock, you have time to make your cherished wish. The youth of Cuba took as an example the custom of eating grapes with each chime, while making wishes with each berry eaten. True, there is a condition: the grapes must have seeds, and they must be thrown away in time. Since it’s not easy to do this quickly if you’re not used to it, Cubans write down their wishes one by one on a piece of paper and read from it, so as not to waste time formulating thoughts into sentences. After midnight, the whole country is illuminated with torches, and the carnival begins to the roar of fireworks: everyone, young and old, rejoices, sings, dances, and has fun. A separate holiday is organized for children, called “Kings’ Day,” although gifts for the kids are given not by Father Frost and the Snow Maiden, but by the magician kings Melchior, Balthasar and Gaspar. After all, all year long children write letters asking for their dreams to them. Only they take out the gift not from under the tree, but from under the araucaria - a local coniferous tree, also decorated. But for those who don’t have araucaria at hand, a cactus or palm tree is also suitable - it doesn’t matter at all, the main thing is that the atmosphere matches.
Before making secret wishes to the clink of crystal glasses, Italians first free themselves from everything old. Therefore, at the end of the year, you should not walk right under the windows of Italian houses: all the unnecessary rubbish - old furniture, shoes, clothes, metal utensils - flies from the windows directly onto the street. But they save dishes made of glass or ceramics with chips until midnight, and beat them with the chimes, with each broken item, they make a wish. Italians sincerely believe that with every broken object, the energy goes to fulfill their desires. In addition, in order to attract money to their home, residents make sure to put red caviar on the table and eat pork dishes. As for the main festive New Year's dish, it varies depending on the region: in one region it is believed that those who have well-cooked chickpeas on their table will be lucky in the New Year, and somewhere they say that for good luck in the first minutes of the new year you need to take a few sips of beer.
The name of this holiday in Greece is “Agios Vasilias”. For Greece, it is normal for a guest who comes to your home for New Year to bring a stone as a gift. And the larger this pebble is, the more happiness, money and health it will bring to the owners of the house. Leaving such a cobblestone, the owners say: “May the owners’ money be as heavy as this stone.” If it is small, then the owners say that the size of their glasses should be the same small. A deck of cards is also considered a good gift for the New Year. There are several other interesting Greek New Year rituals. For example, this ritual can only be performed by the owner of the house at midnight: he goes out into the yard and breaks a pomegranate fruit against the wall; it is believed that the further the seeds scatter, the more prosperous and richer the family will have in the year. And on the eve of the New Year, they bake “Vasilopitta” - a pie named after St. Basil, the patron saint of the poor, as well as unmarried women. These ladies turn to the saint on New Year's Eve with a request to arrange their fate and to meet their soulmate. They bake a coin in this pie and see who gets it, which means that this person will have good luck and luck all year long. Also, the main dishes of the New Year's table here are: pickled cabbage, cabbage rolls, baked chicken. Greek New Year traditions, just like in Russia, include carols and dressing up in funny costumes.
Traditional Chinese New Year is the Spring Festival that falls on the second new moon after the twenty-first of December. In China, they don’t limit themselves to one coin in a pie; they prepare holiday dumplings with a surprise: it can be money, a ring, or other things symbolizing something. And to speed up the fulfillment of a wish, the Chinese, at nightfall, launch lanterns into the sky, inside of which there are pieces of paper with their plans. You can launch one flashlight, or if you have many desires, then at least a whole garland. The color of such a lantern must be red, and you also need to carefully monitor how it rises into the sky, and judge by its trajectory whether anything will hinder the fulfillment of your dream. If the flashlight rose into the sky easily and quickly, then everything will happen very soon. Therefore, if you decide to follow the Chinese tradition of celebrating the New Year, carefully choose the place to launch your lantern so that there are no wires or trees nearby. Processions of launching lanterns in China take place amid the noise and roar of sparkling fireworks, the sounds of firecrackers and the sound of gongs - this is how they try to drive away evil spirits and get rid of evil spirits. The Chinese are especially afraid of them on New Year's Day and that is why they keep their doors closed from eleven o'clock in the evening until dawn. next day. They don’t put up Christmas trees in China, instead there is a “Tree of Light”, decorated with bright lanterns, flowers, candied fruits and sweets, and each thing has its own symbolic meaning. For example, candied melons are a symbol of wishes for health, coconuts are a sign of cohesion, watermelon seeds are a sign of happiness and trust, lotus flowers are a wish for many children.
New Year's Eve. The Spaniards believe in the magic of red underwear, which, when worn on New Year's Eve, will make him lucky for the coming year. And, of course, they believe in the miraculous power of twelve grapes, which must be eaten with every stroke of the clock. Even if young people are in a bar or restaurant, they always bring a bag of grapes with them. As they eat each berry, they say their wish out loud as clearly as possible. So that it is definitely heard and comes true.
Differs from mainland Spain due to different climate and traditions local population. New Year in the Canary Islands is a fabulous holiday that attracts tourists from all over the world. The first of January in the Canaries - official holiday called "Año Nuevo", literally "New Year", but preparations for it begin three days earlier. The twenty-ninth of December is a day of fun and pranks, something like our first of April. On this day, be on your guard so that you are not caught by surprise, as locals love to play pranks on visitors. But if suddenly you become the object of a joke, be it on the beach or on the street, you can safely respond in kind, no one will be offended by you. Next comes St. Sylvester's Day, on which the Canarians consider it a bad omen to work, so they laze around with pleasure and without a twinge of conscience. It is customary to celebrate the New Year itself on the coast or right on the street. Just after midnight, a coconut is thrown into the crowd of people celebrating, dancing and having fun; whoever catches it will become the main lucky person of the coming year, but only on the condition that he drinks the coconut milk to the last drop. The continuation of the celebration is the stunning New Year's Carnival - an amazing spectacle. It is believed that carnivals are held that cannot be compared with any others in the world.
Celebrating the New Year in Turkey from the thirty-first of December to the first of January began only in 1935, after the country switched to the Gregorian calendar. On this night, bright music shows and concerts are held in large squares, and instead of Santa Claus, Noel Baba rules here. Istanbul is especially beautiful at this time, the center of New Year's festivities there is the Pera quarter, as well as Taksim and Sultanahmed squares in the European part of the city and the Kadikoy districts in the Asian part. Instead of fir trees, there are palm trees, although the further you go into the country, the more the nature becomes similar to Russia. For example, at the Uludag resort you will find snow, pine trees and excellent ski slopes. In the warm part there are a lot of places where you can make a wish on New Year’s Eve: in Istanbul it’s the “Weeping Pillar”, in Antalya – the “Tunnel of Wishes”, in Ephesus – the “Wall of Wishes” and so on. But the most popular tourist place on New Year's Eve - the Church of St. Nicholas in the city of Demra. It was here that Bishop Nicholas lived in ancient times, who became the prototype of Santa Claus. Now there is a church here, where people strive to go at Christmas huge number pilgrims. According to legend, you need to walk three circles along a narrow corridor around the altar, all the time repeating your wish to yourself, and it will certainly come true. But this is absolutely not necessary to do at Christmas or New Year; Saint Nicholas always helps whenever he is approached. Just remember to come back and thank him for his help.
The Thais are a cunning people, they celebrate the European, Chinese, and Thai New Year, so they have the opportunity to make several wishes. But during the celebration of any New Year, they have a tradition, when meeting relatives, friends, acquaintances, to give them a leather cord on their wrist. When tying a knot on a lace, the donor must say good wishes, and the recipient makes a secret wish. If you are lucky enough to be on vacation during the New Year holidays, you can see the following picture: Thais walk around with two or three dozen laces on their hands. If you decide to follow this tradition, remember: one knot on one lace - one wish. To make another wish come true, another person must give the lace.
Exactly a week before the holiday, Mexicans hold a dress rehearsal. On this day, they hang a traditional piñata, a painted clay vessel filled with sweets and gifts, on a swinging rope. A mass dance begins, during which its participants eyes closed they try to hit the vessel with a stick so that it breaks and the contents spill out onto the ground. Whoever succeeds in this becomes the main “lucky” person of the coming year. If you are lucky enough to celebrate the New Year in the Mexican outback, then you will see “pas tarelos” - small theatrical mysteries on New Year's theme. Mexicans on New Year's Eve always take a bath and bathe all their pets to start the next year with a clean slate and clean bodies. If the Mexican's desire is connected with obtaining mutual love, then before making a wish he will put on new red underwear, but if the wish is related to finances, then the underwear should be yellow color. If a Mexican dreams of traveling in the New Year, then he packs a suitcase in which he puts everything he might need on the trip and with the last chime he goes outside, makes a couple of circles around the house, and comes back. Moreover, the things in the suitcase should symbolize your desires while traveling, for example, if you dream of marrying a foreigner, then put two rings in your luggage if you want to learn new language, then put in a phrase book, if you want to buy property abroad, then put in a small toy house. No matter where you find yourself during the celebrations, they will be similar to a carnival: flowers, music, dancing, fireworks, ringing bells, traditional Mexican drinks and agave instead of a Christmas tree.
Just like here in Russia, New Year and Christmas are considered family holidays that should be celebrated in a narrow circle of loved ones. But in last years, after the New Year's gala, the second part of the night is spent by local residents in clubs, bars and restaurants accompanied by mesmerizing musical rhythms. If you are invited by local residents, you will probably be offered traditional Dominican holiday dishes: sancocho, pig baked in apples. According to tradition, after the clock strikes, Dominicans rush to plunge into the waters Atlantic Ocean, fortunately they are warm and nearby, and then they rush to the promenade, where there is music, fireworks and countless crowds of people dancing.
It is customary to celebrate the Muslim New Year - Al-Hijara - with prayer and fasting, doing good deeds and helping the poor with alms. On the eve of the European New Year, everything here is arranged for tourists: streets, shops, bars and restaurants are decorated, Christmas trees are placed in squares. If you come to the New Year holidays in, be sure to come to the famous Burj Khalifa skyscraper in the center of Dubai by midnight. Every year there they give a fantastically beautiful fireworks display. There is a gorgeous New Year tree in the hotel lobby. And the high-speed elevator will take you to observation deck himself tall building in the world that from above you can enjoy the beauty of the sparkling lights of the city.
Indonesians respect the cultures and holidays of all nations, since one hundred and fifty nations live in the country. All New Year holidays are celebrated here: Chinese New Year, Islamic, Indo-Balinese, European. By the way, the European one is called here – “Baru Masekhi Experience”. In Jakarta it is a family holiday, so it goes almost unnoticed, but in Bali it is celebrated on a grand scale. On the afternoon of December thirty-first, a grandiose carnival procession marches along the main thoroughfare of Denpasar. You can rent costumes from local studios. The Balinese say that the more fun you celebrate the holiday and the brighter your costume, the more successful the year will be. The procession ends in the beach area, where New Year's competitions and raffles are held, and when darkness falls, dances are held near a spruce illuminated with lights.
These are so interesting new year traditions V different countries peace. But it’s always more interesting to see all this with your own eyes, to visit amazing and incredible places, to meet people of other races and nationalities, to look at their interesting and authentic rituals and ceremonies. Therefore, in the coming New Year we wish you more travel and a lot of positive emotions from them!
Cultural traditions of the New Year in different countries
Interesting customs New Year in different countriesNew year in Russia
There are quite a lot of traditions for celebrating the New Year in Russia. But what's interesting is that most of them came from Western culture. This may be explained by two reasons: firstly, the arrival of Christianity in Slavic Rus' completely, or almost completely, abolished the pagan traditions of celebrating the New Year and seeing off the Old Year. Secondly, the nobility and nobility imported new Western customs into Russia, which were subsequently adopted by the common people and became popular. Moreover, each era brought something new. From the times of Slavic paganism we inherited mummers, buffoons and jesters. The era of Peter the Great and subsequent reformer rulers brought a New Year tree with toys, fireworks, Santa Claus and a New Year's table (delicacies such as Olivier salads and vinaigrette were not known before him; they made do with porridge and pies). And the country of the Soviets gave us Father Frost and the Snow Maiden, the obligatory Champagne with tangerines on the table and the striking of the Chimes.
New Year in England
In England, a bell announces the arrival of the New Year. True, he starts calling a little earlier than midnight and does it in a “whisper” - the blanket with which he is wrapped prevents him from demonstrating all his power. But at exactly twelve o'clock the blanket is taken off and the celebration starts full power. Residents of Britain, when the clock begins to strike 12, open the back doors of the house to let out Old year, and with the last blow they open the front doors, letting in the New Year. It's called Letting in New Year("New Year's Entrance"). In addition to the Christmas tree, the house is decorated with mistletoe branches. There are even mistletoe bouquets on lamps and chandeliers, and, according to custom, you can kiss a person standing in the middle of the room under a mistletoe bouquet. IN English houses The New Year's table is served with turkey with chestnuts and fried potatoes with sauce, as well as stewed Brussels sprouts with meat pies, followed by pudding, sweets, and fruit.
New Year in Austria
In Austria, the modern custom of gifts and congratulations for the New Year was widespread back in late XVIII And early XIX V. It is now customary to give figurines or send postcards with traditional symbols of happiness; These are considered to be chimney sweep, four-leaf clover, and pig. Dinner on December 31st should be plentiful in order to live well in the New Year. Compulsory meat dish there was jellied pig or pork. In Austria, it is believed that on New Year's Eve, in order to be happy, you need to eat a piece of a pig's head or a pig's snout; it was called "participating in the pig's happiness" (Saugluck teilhaftig werden). New Year's Eve Vienna is full of special charm. Huge Christmas markets are held in squares, but the largest is on the Town Hall, in the center of Vienna. At the bazaars you can buy everything from clothes self made and decorations from famous designers to straw stars and Christmas tree decorations.
New Year in Australia
New Year in Australia begins on the first of January. But just at this time it is so hot there that Father Frost and Snow Maiden deliver gifts in swimsuits.
New Year in Belgium and the Netherlands
In Belgium and the Netherlands, there is a widespread custom, the meaning of which is that based on a person’s behavior on New Year’s Day, they predict what will happen to him in the coming year. Therefore, they tried not to do anything on this day, wear something new, etc. In order for there to be prosperity in the house all year, it was necessary to have an abundance of food on the New Year.
New Year's Day is a welcoming holiday for children too. On this day, children congratulate their parents on the New Year and read them pre-prepared congratulatory letters written on a special, decorated bright colors and paper ribbons. The Flemings and Walloons go from house to house on New Year's night" Good angel" or "Christ Child", who place sweets under the pillow of sleeping children.
There is another custom that is widespread in other countries in the Netherlands and Belgium - the election of the king of the holiday. To do this, housewives bake a pie in which the beans are baked. Whoever gets a piece of bean pie becomes king for the entire holiday. The king himself selects his queen and retinue: a court jester, a nobleman, etc.
In Brabant and West Flanders there is another way of electing the king. 16 special so-called royal postcards (Koningsbriefs) are produced, which depict the king, his courtiers and servants: adviser, steward, ambassador, singer, actor, cook, etc. In the village, such postcards are often drawn by hand. Then those present take one card at random, and thus the roles of the festive evening are distributed. The king and queen, crowned with gold paper crowns, preside over the evening. Those present must repeat all their gestures and actions. Their power continues throughout the entire day of January 6, which is filled with fun and jokes.
New Year in Burma
The New Year in Burma begins in April (between April 12 and 17; the exact day of celebration is announced by the Ministry of Culture by a special decree, and the celebrations last three days), on the hottest days there. And for a whole week people pour water on each other heartily. The New Year's water festival is underway - Tinjan.
New Year in Bulgaria
In Bulgaria, it is traditional to celebrate the New Year at home. Before the holiday begins, the youngest person in the house stands near the Christmas tree and sings carols to the guests. Grateful relatives and guests give him gifts. The most interesting thing begins with the 12th strike of the clock. At this time, the lights in the houses go out for a moment for New Year's kisses. Only after this does the hostess begin to cut the pie with surprises baked in it. If you get a coin, expect wealth, a sprig of roses means personal happiness. The same surprise cake tradition is common in Romania and Australia. On New Year's Eve, after the feast, they make dogwood sticks (survachki). Survachka is decorated with red thread, heads of garlic, nuts, coins, prunes and dried fruits. They go with the survachki to visit guests. They enter the house and pat the owners on the back with them. Such pats promise good luck, health and prosperity to the home.
New Year in Brazil
In Brazil, the New Year's celebration is called Iemanja. On New Year's Eve, residents of Rio de Janeiro go to the ocean to make offerings to the sea: most often these are flowers on small ships made of wood. Gifts are placed in small boats and sent out to sea as a sign of gratitude for last year and for good luck in the coming year.
New Year in Hungary
New Year - uj ev - in Hungary does not have the same meaning as Christmas, although some Christmas customs were observed at this time. In Hungary, in the first second of the New Year, they prefer to whistle - and not using their fingers, but children’s pipes, horns, and whistles. It is believed that they are the ones who call for joy and prosperity. And when washing in the morning, instead of soap, they rub their hands with coins so that they remain in their hands all year long. In preparation for the holiday, Hungarian New Year's dishes include beans and peas, apples, nuts, garlic, and honey to sweeten life.
New Year in Venezuela
Celebrating the New Year in Venezuela is a special event. All relatives get together and prepare la hallaca - one of the types of very rich food with a lot of seasonings, which is eaten by all household members during New Year's Eve. Everyone wishes each other happiness in the new year and forgets all past grievances.
New Year in Vietnam
In Vietnam, the New Year according to the lunisolar calendar is called Tet. This is a family holiday, during which all quarrels are forgotten and grievances are forgiven. The Vietnamese decorate their homes with miniature tangerine trees with tiny fruits. New Year and January 1 are celebrated in Vietnam.
New Year in Germany
In Germany, people of different ages, as soon as the clock begins to strike midnight, they climb onto chairs, tables, armchairs and, with the last blow, unanimously, with joyful greetings, “jump” into the New Year.
New Year in India
The traditional New Year, which is celebrated on January 1, is not for all countries the starting point of the new calendar year. Hindus, for example, celebrate this holiday more than four times a year - this is their national peculiarity. Materials on Internet sites also say that in India on New Year’s Day you need to hit a paper “kite” with a burning arrow and then the holiday is considered to have begun. Hindus celebrate New Year in different ways depending on where they live. Residents northern India decorate themselves with flowers of pink, red, purple, or white shades. In south India, mothers place sweets, flowers, small gifts on a special tray. On New Year's morning, children must wait with their eyes closed until they are led to the tray. In western India, New Year is celebrated at the end of October. Small lights are lit on the roofs of houses. In central India, orange flags are hung on buildings. India is one of the countries where many cultures and subcultures intersect. Christians, Muslims, and Buddhists live there, but, nevertheless, the bulk of the population professes the Hindu religion. And their New Year, accordingly, begins according to the prescriptions of the Hindu calendar. This does not mean that Hindus skimp on the Islamic and Christian New Years - they gladly take part in the celebration of these celebrations, as well as the Nativity of Christ. For the traditional Indian year, called Gudi Padwa, the date changes every year, depending on the lunar calendar. The New Year celebration lasts more than one day and is accompanied by various carnival processions, fairs and other paraphernalia. But, since political, economic and social sphere countries are guided by the Christian chronology; the first of January is also not ignored. Hindus in Tamil Nadu celebrate the start of the new year on April 14, which coincides with the official arrival of spring. In Andhra Pradesh, the new calendar year begins only in March. Residents of Kashmir generally begin counting the New Year on March 10, and continue to celebrate until the end of the celebrations in all states, and in West Bengal, the New Year comes on April 13. Don't forget about celebrating the New Year eastern calendar, as well as about the Muslim New Year. Thus, we can say with complete confidence that India is the most New Year's country in the world.
New Year in Indonesia
In Indonesia, New Year comes in October. All people dress up, wish each other happiness in the new year and forget all past grievances.
New Year in Iran
In Iran (a Muslim country formerly called Persia), Iranians and those who use Iranian calendar, celebrate the New Year (Navruz - Persian نوروز, “new day”) on March 21 or 22 (the night from 30 esfand to 1 farvardin), on the day of the vernal equinox. A few weeks before the holiday, people plant grains of wheat or barley in a small dish. By the New Year, the grains sprout, which symbolizes the beginning of spring and a new year of life.
New Year in Spain
On New Year's Eve, townspeople take to the streets and squares where festivities take place. And when the city clock strikes midnight, everyone you know and strangers They begin to congratulate each other, wish them health, good luck and exchange gifts. Also in Spain, the expressive features of an erotic cult are carried by one of the New Year’s customs, which is still followed in many villages of the country, although in a humorous form: “estrechos” (in Asturias - “devotos”) - the conclusion of fictitious marriages. On New Year's Eve, girls and boys from the entire village pull out pieces of paper with the names of fellow villagers of both sexes. Guys get “brides” this way, girls get “grooms”. In some places, for example, in the district of Ourency, this procedure takes place in front of bonfires near the church porch. Married couples that have formed are considered lovers until the very end of the holiday and behave accordingly.
In Barcelona and Madrid, until recently on New Year's Eve, they sold tickets with the names of guests of both sexes and then paired them up at random: they got “grooms” and “brides” for the whole evening. The next morning, the “groom” was supposed to come to his “bride” with a visit and a gift - flowers, sweets. Sometimes young people arranged things in such a way as to get their favorite girl as a “bride,” and it turned out to be a real marriage. It is possible that here are traces of a very serious marriage custom, when marriages were concluded under the strict control of the community.
Also in Spain there is a tradition of eating grapes on New Year's Eve. When the clock strikes, you need to have time to eat 12 grapes, one for each of the twelve coming months.
New Year in Italy
On New Year's Day, at exactly midnight, Italians throw open their windows and throw out old and unnecessary things. This tradition is connected with the fact that one must enter the New Year wearing everything new - new clothes, new furniture. And old unnecessary worries and things must be safely thrown away after the passing year. The more things you throw away, they believe, the more wealth the New Year will bring.
In the provinces of Italy, this custom has long existed: on January 1, early in the morning, you need to bring “new water” from a source to your house. If you don’t have anything to give to your friends, the Italians say, you can give “new water” with an olive branch.” It is believed that “new” water, brought before sunrise, brings happiness. For an Italian it is also important , what if on January 1 an Italian meets a nice old man - that’s good. And even better - a hunchback. Then the New Year will definitely be prosperous!
New Year in China
Chinese New Year occurs in January-February, so it is associated with the end of winter and the beginning of spring. Street processions are the most exciting part of the holiday. In modern China, New Year is a festival of lanterns. On New Year's Eve, countless small lanterns are lit on the streets and squares, complementing the New Year's holiday with beautiful firecrackers and firecrackers. Residents of China, seeing off the cold and bad weather with the light of lanterns, welcome the awakening of nature. Lanterns are given different shape, decorated with bright patterns and intricate ornaments. On the first days of New Year's, swearing is not allowed at all. New Year in China is a strictly family holiday, and every Chinese strives to spend it with their family. In the evening deadline day Every year, every family gathers in the living room for a festive dinner. During this dinner, family members forgive each other old grievances. After finishing the meal, no one went to bed, so as not to miss their future happiness. Night vigils for the New Year were called “protecting the year.”
New Year in Colombia
In Colombia main character New Year's carnival - Old Year - walks on high stilts and tells the children funny stories. Papa Pascual - Colombian Santa Claus - arranges fireworks.
New Year in Cuba
Before the New Year, Cubans fill all the dishes in the house with water, and after midnight they pour the water out of the windows. In this form, all residents of Liberty Island wish the New Year a bright and clear path, like water. While the clock strikes twelve, one must eat twelve grapes, and then happiness, goodness, harmony, prosperity and peace will accompany a person all year.
New Year in Mexico
In Mexico, the New Year is celebrated with festive fireworks, firecrackers, and the ringing of special New Year's bells. And children are given delicious gingerbread dolls at midnight.
New Year in Mongolia
In Mongolia, with the arrival of the first day of the New Year, a truly national celebration begins in the country. The official New Year in the country is January 1, and the New Year according to the lunisolar calendar is called “Tsagaan Sar”. According to tradition, the family says goodbye to the old year; the farewell is called “bituun”. At this moment you cannot quarrel, argue, swear and deceive.
New Year in Myanmar
In Myanmar, the New Year comes at the hottest time of the year, so its arrival is celebrated with the so-called “water festival”, when people throw water on each other when they meet. The tradition of pouring water is a kind of wish for happiness in the New Year.
New Year in Nepal
In Nepal, New Year is celebrated at sunrise. At night when full moon, Nepalese light huge fires and throw unnecessary things into the fire. The next day comes the turn of the Festival of Colors, and then the whole country turns into a huge rainbow. People paint their faces, arms and chests fancy patterns, and then crowds of painted merry people walk through the streets singing and dancing.
New Year in Panama
In Panama, at midnight, when the New Year is just beginning, all the bells ring, sirens howl, cars honk. The Panamanians themselves - both children and adults - at this time shout loudly and knock on everything they can get their hands on. All this noise is necessary in order to “appease” the coming year. The peoples of the North are the most interesting, unexpected, and festive. New Year's Eve here turns into the personification of a feeling of immense joy and friendliness of the holiday. This is a sales fair, this is a sports competition, this is folklore with the presence of a Christmas tree and Santa Claus, who is the keeper of secrets and surprises on New Year's Eve.
New Year in Portugal
Neighboring Portugal also has a tradition, like Spain, similar to drawing lots. But they choose not the bride and groom, but the king of the evening. A coin is baked into a Christmas cake. The one who gets it is declared the king of the evening, and all other guests must behave accordingly with him.
The same tradition of baking coins exists in other countries, for example, in Bulgaria, Romania and Austria. But usually this serves the function of fortune-telling - the one who gets the coin will definitely be rich.
New Year in Scandinavia
In Scandinavia, in the first seconds of the New Year, it is customary to grunt under the table to drive away troubles from the family and create the beginning of only the best in the new year.
New Year in Sudan
In Sudan, you need to celebrate the New Year on the banks of the Nile, then all your wishes will come true.
New Year in Turkey
Muslims are not prohibited from celebrating the New Year, but it is not recommended to decorate the Christmas tree and invite Santa Claus. This is stated in the New Year's statement by the head of Turkish Muslims. The tradition of celebrating the New Year is recognized throughout the world and is part of world culture, but Christmas is a religious holiday and has nothing to do with the New Year; Muslims should not confuse these two holidays. The tradition of celebrating the New Year with a Christmas tree is common in Turkey. However, in a number of Muslim countries, New Year celebrations are not encouraged. In particular, in Saudi Arabia this is prohibited.
New Year in Finland
According to Finnish ideas, the central winter month was a fox. January and February were called the big and small or the first and second months of tammikuu. The celebration of the New Year on January 1 was adopted by the Finns in the 16th century. Before this, the year began after Michaelmas, gradually moved towards the end of October and at one time was apparently celebrated on November 1st. Since the New Year began to be celebrated on January 1, the features characteristic of such a date have passed to its eve and to the first day.
New Year in France
Despite the fact that the French are known as a loving nation, on New Year's Eve they prefer not to kiss, but to eat and get drunk. According to tradition, a good winemaker must clink glasses with a barrel of wine, congratulate it on the holiday and drink to the future harvest. And since only lazy people don’t make wine in France, you can imagine the fun they have there. In France, Father Christmas - Père Noel - comes on New Year's Eve and leaves gifts in children's shoes. The one who gets the bean baked into the New Year's pie receives the title of "bean king", and on the festive night everyone obeys his orders. Wooden or clay figurines - santons - are placed near the Christmas tree.
New Year in Switzerland
In Switzerland (and in Austria too) people dress up to celebrate St. Sylvester's Day. This holiday is based on the legend that Pope Sylvester (314) caught a terrible sea monster. It was believed that in the year 1000 this monster would break free and destroy the world. To everyone's joy, this did not happen. Since then, in Austria and Switzerland this story has been remembered on New Year's Day. People dress up in fancy dress and call themselves Sylvesterklaus.
New Year in Sweden
Swedes desperately miss the sun in winter. Therefore, at the beginning of a series of New Year and Christmas holidays, they organize processions with torches and candles, and on New Year’s Day they give each other homemade candles. They also buzz during the holiday. IN literally of this word - when the clock strikes 12, the Swedes blow their horns with all their might.
New Year in Scotland
In Scotland, or more precisely, in some villages of this country, the New Year is celebrated with a kind of torchlight procession: barrels of tar are set on fire and rolled through the streets. Thus, the Scots “burn” the old year and light the way for the new one. The morning of the New Year is even more important for them than for them New year's night: after all, the well-being of the owners depends on who is the first to enter the house on this day. It is believed that the most best happiness brings a dark-haired man who came with a gift.
New Year in Yugoslavia
In Yugoslavia, there was a lot of fortune-telling on New Year's Day: the weather in a particular month was determined by salting 12 onions (Croats, Slovenes). In some areas of Slovenia, ten various items: Among them were a pine twig (happiness), a ring (wedding), a doll (family growth), money (wealth), etc., which were covered with a fur hat. Each fortuneteller had to pull out an object three times, and if he always came across the same one, this meant that within a year an event would occur in his life related to the symbolism of this object.
New Year in Japan
In Japan, New Year is celebrated on January 1st. The custom of seeing off the Old Year is obligatory, including organizing receptions and visiting restaurants. As the New Year begins, the Japanese begin to laugh. They believe that laughter will bring them good luck in the coming year. On the first New Year's Eve it is customary to visit the temple. The temples ring a bell 108 times. With each blow, as the Japanese believe, everything bad goes away, which should not happen again in the New Year. According to Japanese belief, each ringing neutralizes one of the human best features. According to the Japanese, there are only 6 of them (greed, anger, stupidity, frivolity, indecision, envy), but each has 18 different shades - and the Japanese bell tolls for them.
In the first seconds of the New Year, you should laugh - this should bring good luck. And so that happiness comes into the house, the Japanese decorate it, or rather the front door, with branches of bamboo and pine - symbols of longevity and fidelity. In houses, rice cakes are placed in a prominent place, on top of which tangerines are placed, symbolizing happiness, health and longevity. In Japan, the European Christmas tree is decorated with exotic plants growing on the islands.
New Year in Japan is one of the most popular holidays in the country. Japanese children celebrate the New Year wearing new clothes, believing it will bring good luck and health. On New Year's Eve, children put a drawing of their dream under their pillow, then their wish should come true. Pine dominates flower arrangements, symbolizing longevity and endurance. And in the morning, when the New Year comes into its own, the Japanese go out of their houses into the street to greet the sunrise. At first light they congratulate each other and give gifts.
In Japan, lucky amulets - rakes - are extremely popular among New Year's accessories. Every Japanese considers it necessary to purchase them so that they have something to rake in happiness for the New Year. Bamboo rakes - kumade - are made from 10 cm to 1.5 m in size and are decorated with rich paintings.
To appease the upcoming New Year and for good luck, the Japanese build a kadomatsu in front of the house - a small gate made of three bamboo sticks to which pine branches are tied. Those who are richer build kadomatsu from dwarf pine, bamboo shoots and a small blossoming plum or peach tree.
What interesting New Year traditions do you know?
New Year, as you know, is a time of gifts and magic! Therefore, each of us is looking forward to its arrival. In different countries, on different continents it is always celebrated on a grand scale, as well as with its own characteristics.
For example, in Australia, although New Year- This is rather another Christmas holiday, it is celebrated very brightly and vigorously. In Sydney, on New Year's Eve, the city is decorated with all kinds of garlands, a riot of colors rages in the sky huge amount fireworks, which can be seen from a distance of even 20 kilometers from the city, concerts are held everywhere. Besides, New Year for Australians– this is a wonderful occasion for picnics, trips, beach parties, etc. And, of course, all the kids, and some adults too, on New Year’s Eve are looking forward to everyone’s favorite Santa Claus coming to them.
New Year in America Officially celebrated on January 1, but people start celebrating as early as December 31. On New Year's Eve, Americans meet with their friends, neighbors, acquaintances, family members, etc. They prepare for it thoroughly, starting right from Christmas. The main attention, of course, is paid to gifts, which are purchased for the most part on the so-called “Black Friday”, when considerable discounts are established everywhere on various goods.
The packaging cannot go unnoticed, in which, for example, they can comfortably settle down. designer toys (examples at http://www.magsnov.ru/podarki/mjagkie_igrushki/) in the form of a symbol of the coming year, which became original New Year's gift. Various boxes, wrappers, cases, bows turn a gift into a small work of art that... great joy Children and adults open the door the next morning.
In Great Britain The arrival of the New Year is announced by the ringing of a bell. When the bell begins to ring, the English open the back doors of their houses, as if saying goodbye and releasing the Old Year, and with the last strike of the bell they open entrance doors, thereby ushering in the New Year. Gifts are according to the old English New Year's tradition, are distributed by lot. Usually before going to bed, in anticipation of the arrival of Santa Claus, children place a plate next to their beds for gifts, and also put hay in their shoes as a special treat for Santa Claus' companion, the donkey. Another English tradition that has spread throughout the world is the tradition of exchanging greeting cards.
New Year in Greece celebrated as a holiday dedicated to St. Basil - known for his kindness and beneficence. In fact, Greek children expect gifts from him, leaving their shoes near the fireplace and hoping to find gifts in them in the morning. When going to visit for the New Year, the Greeks will definitely take a large stone with them and, throwing it near the threshold of the owners, they will say: “We hope that in the new year the owners of this house will have as much wealth as this stone weighs!” Well, if such a stone is not found, then they throw a small pebble, saying: “We hope that in the New Year the owners of this house will have problems as small and insignificant as this pebble!”
New Year in India celebrated about 8 times! This is due to the fact that a large number of people professing different religions live here. According to the main religion - Hinduism, the New Year is celebrated in the spring. Its peculiarity lies in the fact that it is celebrated every year on different days. It all depends on the lunar calendar. The celebration begins after the traditional destruction by a fiery arrow paper kite. After this, Hindus chew bitter leaves, believing that in the New Year their life will definitely become better and sweeter. In western India, New Year comes in October and is celebrated as the festival of the goddess of wealth Lakshmi. On this day, all houses and streets are decorated with all kinds of lamps and lanterns. After all, according to legend, it is to such places and houses that Lakshmi comes and bestows wealth and happiness. Muslims living in India celebrate the New Year on the day of the vernal equinox - March 21. The holiday takes place during the day, but always with family and relatives. New Year in India is also celebrated on January 1, when it is necessary to light a large fire, the smoke of which carries away all the misfortunes and troubles of the Old Year.
In Italy there is a very funny one new year tradition- throw away old, unnecessary things. Moreover, Italians throw them right out of their windows! Another New Year's custom is to bring home water from a spring early in the morning on January 1 - this will definitely bring you happiness in the New Year. In addition, according to Italians, this is a good gift for friends. Also, according to legend, on New Year's Eve the good fairy Befana flies to the children and fills their stockings hanging by the fireplace with gifts. And those who behaved badly during the year receive a piece of coal from her. It is also important for Italians who they will meet first in the new year. If it's a priest or Small child- not good, but if the hunchback is an old man, then, of course, fortunately.
New Year in China celebrated between January 17 and February 19, usually on the new moon. The streets at this time are full of different colors and many lanterns, and main part holiday - street processions. On every corner there are firecrackers and firecrackers, which, according to the Chinese, protect against evil spirits. New Year for the Chinese is only a family holiday, so every family gathers at the festive table on New Year's Eve, first paying tribute to the departed and forgiving each other all insults. And, of course, the Chinese children on this night await the arrival of Shen Dan Laoren - the Chinese Santa Claus.
New Year in Japan They are celebrated, as in most countries, on January 1. According to Japanese traditions, it is necessary to “celebrate” the Old Year, which is usually done on a grand scale. On New Year's Eve, you also need to visit the temple, where you will definitely hear 108 strikes of the bell, which notify you of the arrival of the New Year. Each blow, according to legend, destroys one of the human vices. The most popular New Year's amulet is a small rake. You need to buy them in order to rake in as much happiness as possible in the New Year. And little Japanese celebrate it in new clothes, which will definitely bring good luck and health in the coming year and look forward to Segatsu-san - the Japanese Santa Claus.
You can't ignore it and new year traditions Russia . We have a lot of traditions, which, however, are mostly borrowed from the West. This is certainly due to the different stages of our history. So, from the times of paganism, buffoons, mummers, and jesters remained. Thanks to Peter I, we have a tradition of decorating the New Year tree, fireworks, as well as various overseas dishes, such as vinaigrette and Olivier salad. And before there were only pies and porridge. And, of course, the USSR gave us Father Frost and his granddaughter Snegurochka, as well as such mandatory New Year's attributes as champagne and tangerines!
Whatever it was. We wish everyone to celebrate the New Year the way they themselves want. Let next year be no worse than last year and even much better.
Happy New Year to you!
From time immemorial, Russians, Belarusians and Ukrainians have considered it a traditional New Year's dish. sweet porridge, which is cooked from whole grains (grains should be of several types) and pancakes. People believed that if there was plenty of food for the New Year, then the whole year would be like that. IN Ancient Rus' On New Year's Eve, domestic animals were baked from the dough: cows, horses, bulls. When the mummers came to carol, they were always given such figurines, sweets and nuts. It was also believed that it was necessary to celebrate the New Year in new clothes, then wear them all year round. Before the New Year, it was imperative to pay off all debts, forgive all insults, and make peace.
In different countries, the New Year is celebrated differently.
The New Year is celebrated very exotically in Australia. Since there are no usual New Year's attributes: snow, Christmas trees and deer, Santa Claus appears on the beach in a swimming suit and on a surf. Moreover, according to tradition, he always has a white beard and a red hat with a pompom. The peculiarity of New Year's Eve in Australia is that it ends immediately after midnight. Residents of Australia wake up very early, at five o'clock, and go to bed no later than ten in the evening. Therefore, New Year's Eve is an exception in itself for them. At the beginning of the first night, everyone is already asleep.
Austrians celebrate the New Year on the Cathedral Square of St. Stefan. The solemn ringing of the “peace bell” is considered a mandatory New Year’s event.
In Afghanistan, the New Year coincides with the Great Equinox. The village elder goes out into the field and plows the first furrow. He is followed by the most revered inhabitants. According to tradition, women celebrate the holiday separately from men. Alcohol is prohibited by law, so it is replaced with sweets.
In Argentina, employees of various institutions have a tradition of throwing all old statements, calendars, and forms out of the window on the last day of the expiring year. This tradition is not without incidents: one day, zealous employees threw out the entire archive.
In Bulgaria, dogwood sticks are considered a mandatory attribute of the New Year holidays. On New Year's Day, children congratulate their relatives on the holiday by lightly hitting them with these sticks. On New Year's Eve, with the last stroke of the clock of the past year, the lights in every house go out for a few minutes. This time is celebrated with New Year's kisses, which follow instead of toasts.
In Burma, New Year is celebrated during the hottest time of the year. At this time, there is a water festival - people douse themselves with whatever water they have. This ritual is a kind of wish for good luck and happiness in the coming year.
In Brazil, thousands of candles are lit on the beach on New Year's Eve.
In Holland, donuts with raisins are placed on the table on New Year's Eve. 
And in Denmark, in order to eradicate the felling of spruce trees, which the Danes love to decorate their homes with, foresters have come up with a very original method: they treat the trees with a special compound, which, when heated, emits a sharp, unpleasant odor, thereby punishing those who like to poach.
In Great Britain, it is customary to decorate the house with bunches of holly and mistletoe on New Year's Day. There is a custom according to which a man has the right to kiss a girl who is in front of a decoration made from these plants. The most ancient tradition- Christmas log. Its founders were the ancient Vikings. On New Year's Day they cut down a large tree, and it dried up all year. And only on the next New Year's holiday they brought it into the house, where it burned for a very long time. It was believed that if the log goes out without burning to the ground, then misfortune awaits the owner.
In Greece, at exactly midnight, the head of the family goes out into the street and throws a grenade at the wall. If it breaks and its grains scatter in all directions, then happiness awaits the family. When the Greeks come to visit, they bring a mossy stone, saying: “Let the owners’ money be as heavy as this stone.”
The New Year is celebrated in a special way in Indonesia. In Bali it lasts ten days. At this time, huge columns of rice are erected, which are intended for the gods. After the end of the holiday, the columns are dismantled and taken home, where they are then eaten.
In different parts of India, the New Year is celebrated in different ways: in central India, buildings are decorated with multi-colored flags, in northern India different colors Residents decorate themselves, and in the western part lights are lit on the roofs of houses. Hindus have their own customs for presenting gifts: for example, for children they are placed on a specially designed tray. In the morning, children approach the tray with their eyes closed.
In Italy, New Year's holidays begin with St. Lucia. It falls on December 13th. December 24 is the day of Babbo Natale - the local Santa Claus. The holidays end on January 6th with the appearance of the little old lady Befana, who gives children various sweets.
In Spain, the main holiday is Christmas, not New Year. Christmas evening is spent exclusively in the family. A rich table is set, with greater preference given to sweets. For this holiday, housewives stock up on all the delicious things: pies made from wine dough, almond cake, cookies with cumin - and that’s not all. Gifts are given on January 6th, just like in Italy. Mostly children receive them. They hang a stocking outside the window, which they prepare in advance and in the morning it is full of toys and sweets. December 31st is Saint's Day. Nicholas. This is a holiday for friends. Here everyone can have fun the way they want. 
In Ireland, on New Year's Eve, the door of every house opens wide and anyone can come and visit. He will be seated in a place of honor and treated like a king.
In Kenya, New Year's Day is a celebration of water. Kenyans swim, boat, and generally have fun.
In Iran, New Year is celebrated on March 21. Some time before this, people plant wheat grains in pots. When crops sprout, they are symbols of the beginning of spring and the New Year.
Mexicans begin the carnival with the chimes signaling the beginning of the New Year. This is truly an enchanting spectacle. In Mexico, there is a custom of breaking pots filled with gifts, fruits, and sweets.
Cuba has its own custom to celebrate the coming year: when midnight comes, Cubans fill glasses with water and pour it out the open window. This means that the Old Year is over, and people wish each other a New Year as pure as water. The chimes in Cuba strike not 12 times, but 11. This is due to the fact that the 12th strike sounds exactly on the New Year, so the clock is also allowed to calmly celebrate the coming year with everyone.
In Mongolia, the New Year coincides with the cattle breeding holiday; it is characterized by sports competitions, competitions in dexterity, strength, and ingenuity. Among the Mongols, the Christmas tree is also considered a traditional tree. True, Santa Claus is dressed like a cattle breeder on holiday.
In Norway, a goat brings gifts to children. This animal is revered here. She is greeted with treats - ears of oats, which are placed in children's shoes. In the morning, instead of oats, the children find gifts there. According to legend, a local king once saved a wounded goat and cured it; in gratitude, she brought him rare gifts every time. medicinal plants. In general, animals play a big role in Norway: before going to bed on New Year's Eve, children leave bird feeders full of millet, and for horses or foals - mangers full of hay. There is also a custom to leave a cup of oatmeal at the door for the forest gnome who comes with gifts.
In China there is no New Year holiday specific date- it is celebrated strictly during the new moon. This is around the end of January. On New Year's Eve, residents organize a festive procession with many lit lanterns. In this way, the Chinese are lighting their way into the coming year. They believe that the New Year is filled with evil spirits and evil spirits, so they are scared away with firecrackers and fireworks. 
Fireworks, explosions, and firecrackers are also very popular in Colombia. Colombians believe that without a New Year various kinds There simply cannot be any shooting. They make special dolls that start exploding at midnight. The Old Year, surrounded by smoke and noise, moves away, giving way to the New.
In Peru, it is generally accepted that if you walk around your neighborhood with a bag or suitcase, you can go on a long-planned trip. If a girl walks with willow twigs, the young man to whom she offers this twig will be her groom.
In the Philippines, artificial Christmas trees from branches, plastic or papier-mâché begin to be made from November. Lantern competitions are held, which come in a huge variety. At the end of December, when it is very cold here, it is hot in the Philippines, and it is very interesting to see Santa Clauses in red fur coats.
In Finland, gifts are placed on the table and covered with a bowl. An unmarried girl can throw a shoe; if it lands with its toe towards the door, there will be a wedding.
For the French, a symbol of well-being is a large log that should burn in the fireplace. French Santa Claus - Pere Noel, puts gifts in children's shoes. A traditional treat is gingerbread bob. In a French village, the best gift for a neighbor would be a wheel.
In the Czech Republic and Slovakia, everyone gives each other gifts. If you don't like the gift, you can return it or exchange it.
In Scotland, on New Year's Eve, they set fire to tar in a barrel and roll the barrel through the streets. Thus, the Scots burn the old year. When midnight approaches, the owner of the house opens the door wide open and holds it open until the last stroke of the clock strikes. Thus, he releases the old year. Guests bring pieces of coal with them and throw them into the fireplace. At the same time, they want the fire to burn for a very long time. It is generally accepted that in the New Year, the first person to enter the house can bring good luck or vice versa.
On New Year's Eve, the Swiss break dishes near the houses of their neighbors, to whom they wish good luck.
In Japan, New Year's holidays are the most grandiose. 
They last for several days. The last week before the coming year is called “golden”. At this time, many institutions stop their work. On the first New Year's Eve, the Japanese visit the temple. In the temple the bell strikes 108 times. The Japanese believe that with every blow, everything bad goes away, which should not happen in the New Year. For protection from evil spirits and evil spirits, it is customary to hang straw wreaths, or just bunches of straw above the door of the house. And near it, pine and bamboo are placed - they are symbols of longevity and fidelity. At this time, death should not be mentioned, or certain animals, such as the dragon, tiger, snake or forest. If children accidentally let something slip, parents must wipe their mouth with a special ritual napkin. The peculiarity of the Japanese New Year is that it does not occur at midnight, as is customary in most countries, but at sunrise. When the sun rises, Japanese residents congratulate each other on the holiday and give gifts. The evening is spent with family, and parents are sure to visit.
From ancient times New Year — main holiday among most peoples globe. Each nation used its own dating for the new year, usually associated with some historical or mythical event. New Year is a holiday celebrated by many peoples in accordance with the accepted calendar, occurring at the moment of transition from last day year on the first day of the next year.
The custom of celebrating the New Year already existed in Mesopotamia in the third millennium BC. e. The Egyptians counted from the beginning of each dynasty, the Romans began counting from 753 BC. - from the founding of Rome, the Jews - from the creation of the world, which they dated to 3761 BC, and the Alexandrian chronology considered the date of the creation of the world to be 5493 BC. Almost always, the celebration of the New Year was accompanied by ritual-magical rites and rituals, echoes of which have survived to this day.
The beginning of the year on January 1 was established by the Roman ruler Julius Caesar in 46 BC. e. The Romans dedicated this day to Janus - the god of entrances and exits, doors and all beginnings. The month of January got its name in honor of the god Janus, who was depicted with two faces: one looking forward and the other looking back.
Before the calendar reform, the New Year in Russia was celebrated on September 1 according to the Byzantine system of chronology, according to which the count was made “from the creation of the world,” i.e. from September 1, 5509 BC Tsar Peter I, who strived with all his might to Europeanize Russia, by his decree of December 15, 1699, established the beginning of the year in Rus' from January 1 and the Western European era from the “Nativity of Christ.” This is what the king's decree sounds like in the original: “The Great Sovereign indicated to say: the Great Sovereign knows not only that in many European Christian countries, but also in the Slavic peoples, who agree with our Eastern Orthodox Church in everything, such as: Voloks, Moldavians, Serbs, Dalmatians, Bulgarians and his very of the great sovereign, the subjects of Cherkassy and all the Greeks, from whom our Orthodox faith was received, all those peoples, according to their years, count their years from the birth of Christ eight days later, that is, January from the 1st day, and not from the creation of the world...”
So, after December 31, 7208 “from the creation of the world” in Russia, thanks to the efforts of Peter I, January 1, 1700 from the “Nativity of Christ” came, i.e. chronology began to date from the birth of Jesus.
Most countries celebrate New Year on January 1, on the first day of the year Gregorian calendar. Some countries celebrate New Year on lunar calendar.
In China, the traditional New Year is timed to coincide with the winter new moon after the end of the full moon. lunar cycle which took place after winter solstice. In the Gregorian calendar, this corresponds to one of the days between January 21 and February 21. However, the traditional calendar is rarely used and the country first celebrates the New Year on January 1st and then the traditional one.
Chinese New Year 2010 occurs at midnight on the day that falls on the second, not the first, new moon after the winter solstice.
Each new year is associated with one of the 12 animals and one of the five elements. So, 2011 is the year of the Hare (rabbit, cat), and 2012 is the year of the Dragon.
The first day of the New Year begins with the release of fireworks and firecrackers, and the burning of incense. Fireworks are supposed to scare away evil spirits and thereby attract a spirit of peace and happiness into the family. At the end of the day, the family welcomes the deities home after their visit to the spirit world, where they "gave an account" of the past year, and then pays respect to the ancestors.
According to the Chinese, on this first day of spring, nature awakens, the calculation of a new annual cycle begins, the earth and the sprouts of life it preserves come to life. This holiday is significant not only for the Han Chinese, but also for others national minorities. It is celebrated by the Manchus, Mongols, Yaotians, Zhuangs, Gaoshans, Daurs, Dongs, Liyans and other ethnic communities.
The history of the New Year holiday
One of the calendar holidays. Until the 15th century (perhaps also before the adoption of Christianity), in Rus' the New Year began on March 1st. Julian calendar.
In 1348, a council was held in Moscow, at which the year was supposed to begin in September, and not in March.
Since the 15th century, the new year began on September 1; information about the celebration of the New Year appears from the end of the 15th century. "The Parisian Dictionary of Muscovites" (XVI century) preserved Russian name New Year's holiday: First day of the year.
Since 1700, by decree of Peter I, the New Year in Russia has been celebrated, as in other European countries, on January 1 (according to the Julian calendar).
Only starting in 1919, the New Year holiday in Russia began to be celebrated in accordance with Gregorian calendar. From 1930 to 1947, January 1 was a regular working day in the USSR. On December 23, 1947, by decree of the Presidium of the USSR Armed Forces, January 1 became a holiday and a day off. According to the law of September 25, 1992 in the Russian Federation, January 2 became a day off.
How long will they last? New Year holidays?
Since 2005, in Russia, New Year holidays have been established from January 1 to 5 (previously - only 1 and 2), and these days are declared non-working days, and taking into account weekends and Christmas - an official holiday - the weekend lasts 10 days (from January 1 to 10 ).
Customs for celebrating the New Year, or how to celebrate the New Year
In Russia, as well as in China and many other countries, they celebrate every year in accordance with eastern calendar, where each year symbolizes its own animal. Accordingly, in order to appease the animal whose year is coming, they try to dress in the costumes of these animals and give each other gifts with their symbols.
What is not unimportant is that in the year of a certain animal, people and the authorities of countries try to take care of this animal, in particular, if it is in danger of extinction, try to increase the population. Thus, in November 2010 (the year of the Tiger), at the International Forum on Tiger Conservation, they set the goal of doubling the tiger population in 12 years (due to their sharp extermination and extinction in the world). “Today we are adopting a declaration on the conservation of the tiger and thereby cementing our intention to provide the most authoritative level of support for initiatives aimed at protecting this animal.”“, said Prime Minister Vladimir Putin at a press conference following the international forum on tiger conservation.
New Year is celebrated with festive New Year's table, and a live or artificial green tree is installed in the room, which is decorated with festive Christmas tree decorations - balls, candies, confetti, rain, etc.
New Year's Eve is a very significant holiday in many countries. And is accompanied by a variety of pop events, feasts, folk festivals. According to tradition, the house is installed Christmas tree. In many countries this tree is erected at Christmas and is called a Christmas tree; in Russia there used to be such a tradition, but in 1916, during the First World War, the tree was banned by the Holy Synod as a “German custom” and again allowed by a special decree of the Komsomol before the new year of 1936, but as a New Year tree.
When celebrating the New Year, loved ones gather around the table.
Often those gathered first “see off” the year - remember what it was memorable for or what was in it. At 0 o'clock 0 minutes, on January 1, the chimes strike. With the first strike of the chimes, marking the arrival of the new year, it is customary to clink glasses of champagne, congratulate each other, give gifts and make a wish.
Father Frost - fairy tale character Russian folklore. In Slavic mythology - personification winter frosts, a blacksmith who binds water. Collective image Father Frost is based on the hagiography of St. Nicholas, as well as descriptions of the ancient Slavic deities Pozvizd, Zimnik and Korochun.
On New Year's Day, Santa Claus supposedly comes and gives children gifts, which he brings in a sack behind his back. Often depicted in a blue, silver or red fur coat embroidered with patterns, a hat (not a cap), with a long white beard and a staff in his hand, wearing felt boots. He rides three horses, skis or walks.
The ancient Slavs imagined him in the form of a short old man with a long gray beard. His breath is a strong cold. His tears are icicles. Frost - frozen words. And the hair is like snow clouds. Frost's wife is Winter herself. Helpers - Maros (Crackers). In winter, Frost runs through fields, forests, streets and knocks with his staff. From this knock, the bitter frost freezes rivers, streams, and puddles with ice. And if he hits the corner of the hut with his staff, the log will certainly crack. Morozko really doesn’t like those who shiver and complain about the cold. And the cheerful and cheerful are given bodily strength and a hot glow.
An example of congratulations in verse:
Happy New Year
And with all my heart I wish
Laughter, jokes, no worries
Celebrate this New Year.
Happy New Year
I wish you happiness and joy.
You won't get sick for a whole year,
Sing songs for you every day.
On New Year's Day, it has long been customary to go from house to house and sing carols, sing songs and recite poems, for which the owners thank them with food, money and sweets.
When celebrating the New Year, fireworks, fireworks and firecrackers are actively used (see below).
Vietnamese New Year
Vietnam celebrates New Year according to the lunar calendar. It is called Tet (Teth) and is celebrated on the first day of the first lunar month in the first season of the new year. The date of the new year according to the eastern calendar moves from year to year between January 20 and February 20.
Lunar New Year is often called Chinese New Year. This is not surprising, because traditions and culture in countries East Asia came from China.
Customs of the Vietnamese New Year
In the north of the country, on New Year’s Eve, a house is decorated with a flowering peach branch or tangerine trees hung with orange fruits, symbolizing prosperity. During this period, peach and apricot trees, tangerines and almonds bloom. The streets are decorated with young flowering branches and simply bouquets of flowers. In the south of the country on Tet they prefer to decorate their home with a blooming apricot branch, and apricot flowers must have five petals. In addition, southerners place watermelons on the altar, the red, sweet flesh of which symbolizes good luck in the coming year. Regardless of the family’s wealth, before the New Year people try to buy food, fruits, flowers, and sweets in order to prepare a sacrifice on the altar of their ancestors and treat relatives and guests for three holidays. In the evening, on New Year's Eve, mass dragon dances take place. The most magnificent processions and colorful events take place at night. At dusk, bonfires are lit in parks, gardens or on the streets, and several families gather around the bonfires.
Iranian New Year
Iranians and those who use the Iranian calendar in everyday life celebrate the new year (Navruz, “new day”) on March 21 or 22 (the night of 30 Esfand to 1 Farvardin), the day of the vernal equinox. Navruz is a symbol of nature’s renewal.
For Kazakhs, the New Year begins on March 22, coincides with the spring equinox and is called Nauryz Meiramy. Kazakh Father Frost is called Ayaz Ata.
Mass folk celebrations are traditionally organized on Nauryz; many families prepare the traditional dish “Nauryz-kozhe”, consisting of seven specific components. In the old days, on this day it was customary to visit relatives and friends, share news, and start new joint ventures. The tradition was due to the fact that communications between settlements were difficult in winter.
Festive entertainment included various games, horse racing, swing “Altybakan” (translated from Kazakh - six pillars).
The Jewish holiday Rosh Hashanah (head of the year) is celebrated 163 days after Passover (no earlier than September 5 and no later than October 5). On this day, a ten-day period of spiritual self-deepening and repentance begins. Next 10 days until doomsday(Yom Kippur) are called “days of teshuva” (“return” - meaning return to God). They are also called “days of repentance” or “days of trembling.” It is believed that on Rosh Hashanah the fate of a person for the year ahead is decided. On the day of judgment following the holiday (Yom Kippur), Jews greet each other with the wish: “May you be registered and subscribed to good year in the Book of Life! Believers dress in light clothes. During the holiday meal, it is customary to dip challah or an apple in honey.
Tajik New Year
Since ancient times, sedentary Tajiks celebrated the New Year (Navruz or Nooruz - from the Persian "nav" new "ruz" day) - March 21, on the day of the vernal equinox. For this day, “sumalak” or “sumolyok” is cooked from sprouted wheat grains, special bread is baked and festive dishes are prepared.
New Year's address from the head of state
In many countries, a few minutes before the New Year (in Russia, usually at 23:55 on December 31), 22:55, 0:55, heads of state address their people with a speech, in which they usually summarize some of the results of the past year , wish citizens good luck in the new year. The appeal is broadcast by means mass media.
In the USSR and Russia, the tradition of such addresses begins with the speech of L.I. Brezhnev before the New Year, 1976. At the same time, there were some incidents. So, on December 31, 1991, instead of the head of state, satirist Mikhail Zadornov spoke to television viewers. Another outstanding example- “double appeal” before the new year 2000: first, at noon on December 31, 1999, an appeal was made by the first President of the Russian Federation B.N. Yeltsin, in which he announced his resignation (this address was repeated several times), and 12 hours later the acting President, Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation V.V. congratulated viewers on the upcoming New Year. Putin.
After the head of state’s address, the media broadcast an exact time signal at exactly midnight (in Russia this is the striking of the Kremlin chimes), marking the beginning of the new year. As a rule, after this signal it is executed National anthem countries.
The Old New Year is a holiday celebrated in accordance with the New Year according to the Julian calendar (now on the night of January 13-14) and is, in fact, a historical echo of the change of chronology. It is most famous and popular in Russia, although it is also celebrated in Serbia, Switzerland and some other countries. It is celebrated in to a greater extent those who were unable to celebrate the New Year on December 31st.
- In England, in addition to the Christmas tree, the house is decorated with mistletoe branches. There are even mistletoe bouquets on lamps and chandeliers, and, according to custom, you can kiss a person standing in the middle of the room under a mistletoe bouquet.
- In Italy, on New Year's Eve it is customary to get rid of old things, and Christmas is marked by the burning of the Christmas log.
- In France, Father Christmas - Père Noel - comes on New Year's Eve and leaves gifts in children's shoes. The one who gets the bean baked into the New Year's pie receives the title of "bean king", and on the festive night everyone obeys his orders. Wooden or clay figurines - santons - are placed near the Christmas tree.
- In Sweden, before the New Year, children choose the Queen of Light, Lucia. She is dressed in a white dress, and a crown with lit candles is placed on her head. Lucia brings gifts for children and treats for pets: cream for the cat, a sugar bone for the dog, and carrots for the donkey.
- Happy New Year in Bulgaria. When people gather at festive table, the lights in all houses are turned off for three minutes. These minutes are called “minutes of New Year’s kisses,” the secret of which is preserved by darkness. On New Year's Eve after the feast, young people make dogwood sticks (survachki). Survachka is decorated with red thread, heads of garlic, nuts, coins, prunes and dried fruits. They go with the survachki to visit guests. They enter the house and “knock” them on the owners’ backs. Such “beatings” promise good luck, health and prosperity to the house.
- In Colombia, the main character of the New Year's carnival - the Old Year - walks around on high stilts and tells funny stories to children. Papa Pascual - Colombian Santa Claus - arranges fireworks.
- In Cuba, before the New Year, all jugs, buckets, basins and bowls are filled with water and at midnight the water is poured out of the windows. So they wish the outgoing year a path as bright as water. While the clock strikes 12 times, you need to eat 12 grapes, and then goodness, harmony, prosperity and peace will accompany a person all year.
- In Mexico, the New Year is celebrated with the fire of festive fireworks, firing from rocket launchers, and the ringing of special New Year's bells. And children are given delicious gingerbread dolls at midnight.
- In Japan, bells are rung 108 times on New Year's Eve. Each strike of the bell corresponds to one of the vices. There are six of them: greed, stupidity, anger, frivolity, indecisiveness and envy, but each vice has 18 different shades, which in total amounts to 108 bell strokes.
- In Myanmar, the New Year comes during the hottest time of the year, so its arrival is celebrated with the so-called “water festival”, when people throw water on each other when they meet. The tradition of pouring water is a kind of wish for happiness in the New Year.
- In Turkey, despite the fact that it is a Muslim country, many families celebrate the New Year according to the Christian (Gregorian) calendar and have fun with the Turkish equivalent of Santa Claus, whose name in Turkey is Noel Baba. The Muslim clergy is very critical of such celebrations.
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Firework
When celebrating the New Year, a variety of pyrotechnic products are actively used: firecrackers, sparklers and, in last decade- fireworks, rockets, Roman candles, firecrackers large and small, etc.
Currently, many capitals of the world or even individual countries are spending many millions of dollars to organize a large-scale pyrotechnic show for the New Year. The most famous, beautiful and large-scale shows are held in China, London and Sydney, and videos of grandiose fireworks and fireworks from these countries and cities are broadcast throughout the world.
Fireworks and firecrackers
The most famous tradition in different countries, by the way, formed due to superstition, is the lighting of fireworks on New Year's Day in China, as well as explosions of firecrackers that do not stop throughout the entire first New Year's day. It should be noted that gunpowder and, of course, firecrackers and fireworks themselves were invented not so long ago, but many predict the very tradition of creating noise and commotion when celebrating the New Year thousand-year history. It all started with a legend that on New Year's Eve, evil spirits, expelled from different places, look for a new refuge, having found a suitable house, settle in it and throughout the coming year cause various troubles to the owners. So the noise when celebrating the New Year is intended to drive away evil from your threshold; it can be assumed that to create noise before the invention of gunpowder, any household items that were at hand were used.
Story
The use of pyrotechnic products to celebrate the New Year began in Asian countries, and primarily in China, since it was believed that loud noise and bright light, obtained from gunpowder explosions, allow you to ward off evil spirits. Later this tradition spread throughout the world.
Pyrotechnics, fire and injury hazards
Use of pyrotechnic products in large quantities, including minors, creates a potentially fire-hazardous and traumatic situation, therefore New Year's Eve is considered the most stressful period of the year in the work of fire-fighting and rescue services. For example, in Chelyabinsk alone from 1993 to 1998 there were 100 fires. However, it should be recognized that due to close attention media attention to the problem of the fire hazard of pyrotechnics, there is often a suppression (in most cases unintentional) of statistics on other causes of fires (in particular, as a result of careless handling of fire when smoking while intoxicated and careless handling of electrical equipment). These statistics are often consistently high throughout the year and significantly exceed data for fires associated with the careless use of pyrotechnics.
In Moscow, according to the Ministry of Emergency Situations, in the period from December 31, 2008 to January 4, 2009, 32 people were injured from pyrotechnics, including 5 children. 28 people were hospitalized in city hospitals as a result of injuries. (For comparison, in 2008, 65 people were injured from pyrotechnics, of which 19 were children).
