Many nations have rather unusual traditions associated with the New Year. Check out some of the most popular.
From smashing plates to jumping into waves. Here are the customs that make New Year's celebrations really something special.
Throwing things out the window, Italy
Be careful when walking the streets of Italy at midnight. In some parts of Italy, an old custom has caught on, that at the transition to the new year, some old things are swept out of the apartment to make room for new ones. This means that TVs, toasters, pans and other gadgets fly out the windows.
Dining by numbers, Estonia
Instead of filling the cupboards with food, Estonians prefer to refresh themselves in a rather unusual way on New Year's Eve. Namely, they eat seven, nine or twelve dishes. According to Estonian tradition, these numbers are said to bring good luck. The higher the number, the merrier. With each meal eaten, a person is supposed to gain strength in the coming year.
Skip seven waves, Brazil
On New Year's Eve, hordes of Brazilians dressed in white head to the beach. At midnight, in honor of the goddess of the sea, they jump one wave for each day of the week, while making seven wishes. Some put small boats in the water with flowers, jewelry or other gifts, hoping that the waves won't wash them back to shore. If the gifts float into the sea, the goddess is said to reward them with 12 months of happiness.
Running in red panties, Spain
Locals in La Font de la Figuera, Valencia, are not concerned with finding a New Year's dress. In this area, it is a custom to buy a pair of red panties, which is said to bring good luck in the coming year. Locals, dressed only in shorts and sneakers, race through the streets regardless of the weather.
Dish throwing, Denmark
In Denmark, it is a tradition to sweep some old plates into the doors of neighbors and friends on the last day of the new year. So if you find broken cups and plates on your doorstep the day after New Year's Eve, it's just a loving message from your loved ones that brings good luck in the coming year.
