New Year’s Eve traditions from around the world

People across the country bring in the new year in a variety of ways, from enjoying lavish, multi-course meals to watching the Times Square ball drop on TV and popping champagne at the stroke of midnight. Here’s a look at how people in other countries observe New Year’s Eve.

Brazil
You won’t see extravagant costumes at this Brazilian celebration. Instead, people wear white to symbolize peace and prosperity for the year ahead.

Denmark
Just before midnight, it’s tradition for Danes to stand on chairs. This is so they can jump off when the clock strikes 12 to symbolize leaping into the new year.

Estonia
Since seven is a lucky number, Estonians make sure to eat seven meals on New Year’s Eve. This is said to provide the strength of seven men for the year to come.

Japan
Across the country, bells are rung at Buddhist temples 108 times before midnight. This number symbolizes worldly desires, and the practice is intended to chase them away.

Philippines
Among Filipinos, circles are said to bring luck. In addition to wearing polka dot pat¬terns, it’s tradition to eat 12 round fruits — one for each month — to attract good fortune.

South Korea
In seaside towns across the country, people gather on the beach to watch the first sunrise of the year. It’s said that if you make a wish at sunrise, it’ll come true.

Spain
In Spain, people ring in the new year by eating 12 grapes, one at each stroke of midnight. Doing so brings good luck and prosperity for the 365 days to come.

Turkey
Fruit also makes an appearance at Turkish celebrations, where pomegranates are sma¬¬shed on the ground in front of homes to welcome the new year.

Cheers to a happy and healthy year!