Many people around the globe ring in the New Year on December 31st, but that's not the case everywhere, as several countries celebrate the New Year on entirely different dates.

In Israel, Yom Kippur, which marks the Jewish New Year, is typically observed at the end of September or early October. In contrast, the Chinese lunar New Year usually starts at the end of January.

New Year traditions differ from place to place. In Brazil, the festivities are often held at Copacabana Beach with people dressed in white, taking a swim in the ocean to make a wish with each successful jump over the waves. Meanwhile, in Spain and Portugal, there's a unique tradition involving grapes: if you eat a grape with each chime of the clock at midnight, you're said to attract good luck for the coming year.

This evening also signifies a chance to let go of all the negativity from the past year. In Ecuador, people celebrate by burning large rag dolls stuffed with paper and sawdust. Those in Argentina shower down discard papers, documents, and outdated letters from authorities like confetti.

Here in Germany, just like in many other places, the troubles of the past year are blasted away with the booming sounds and lights of fireworks. The “made in Germany“ Neuland family will be doing the same!

As people around the world come together to wish one another a Happy New Year, we would also like to join in: have a wonderful 2025, no matter when it begins or where you are!