New Year’s is a tremendously old tradition that has been celebrated since around 2000 BCE in ancient Mesopotamia. It is widely celebrated, but the activities and traditions that take place on this holiday differ across the entire world.  

In the United States, like many countries, New Year’s celebrations begin on December thirty first, New Year’s Eve. Here, the largest tradition is the ball drop in Times Square, New York. People gather here and wait until the ball drops at midnight. During this, they watch performances of singers and dancers. The people who do not attend commonly get together with friends and family and can watch at home. This year was America’s 250th anniversary of this iconic celebration. 

In Spain, and many other Latin countries, they eat twelve grapes at midnight to bring good luck to each month of the upcoming year. This tradition is known as, “las doce uvas de la suerte.” It originated in Spain around 1909 from grape farmers promoting their grapes by saying eating twelve at midnight would bring good luck.  People also gather for the striking of the clock in Puerta del Sol Square in Madrid. Here there is a large celebration. People dress up in wigs, hats, and masks, and there are many activities like dancing, singing, and partying. 

There are many shared customs that take place worldwide. Some are watching fireworks, singing, and making New Year’s resolutions to start the new year fresh. While so many places celebrate New Year’s differently, there are also so many traditions that are alike. But no matter what traditions are celebrated on this holiday, it is an exciting celebration that brings so many people together. 

https://www.history.com/articles/new-years

https://www.spain.info/en/discover-spain/new-years-eve-spain/