GREENVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) — New Year’s Eve is a time of celebration around the globe.
However, many of those celebrations are marked with numerous superstitions and traditions. 9OYS has compiled a list of some of the different traditions observed and celebrated on NYE.
North America
Eat Beans
In the southern United States, many families consume a meal consisting of pork, rice, and black-eyed peas. This tradition has been around for centuries and is believed to bring about prosperity and good luck to those who participate.
South America
Wear White
Brazilians like to ring in the New Year by jumping into the ocean when the clock strikes midnight. The key is to make a wish every time you make one of your roughly seven jumps. Oh, and don’t forget to wear white as a sign of good fortune.
Europe
Hang Onions
Hanging onions on your doors is an ancient Greek tradition. Onions are a symbol of fertility. It is believed that by hanging these on your front door you invite in abundance, growth and fertility.
Asia
Make A Wish
All you need to participate is a white ball, a Sharpie and a river. In Singapore, people celebrate NYE by writing down their wishes on a giant white sphere. Once the wish is written, the ball is thrown into the Singapore river.
Africa
Throw Furniture
This one is mainly located in a suburb of Johannesburg, South Africa. The people of Hillbrow, Johannesburg, will toss their old unwanted furniture out of windows. Out with the old, they say.
Australia/Oceania
Watch Fireworks
Firework displays can be seen all over Australia on the 31st. Even the Sydney Harbour Bridge sets off its own. Some Australians bring picnic baskets to snack on as they enjoy the festivities.