New Year's Eve, December 31, is the last day of the Gregorian calendar year. Around the world it is celebrated with fireworks, parties, and family gatherings — sending out the old year and welcoming the new.
Year-end celebrations existed in many ancient cultures. The current widespread observance is tied to the Gregorian calendar (1582) and the popularization of secular midnight countdowns in the 19th-20th centuries. Times Square's ball drop began in 1907.
Fireworks. Champagne toasts at midnight. "Auld Lang Syne" sung in many English-speaking countries. Twelve grapes at midnight in Spain. Polka-dotted clothing in the Philippines. Lentils in Italy.
Champagne. 12 grapes (Spain). Cotechino con lenticchie (Italy). Hoppin' John (US South). Pickled herring (Scandinavia). Long noodles (Asia).
"Happy New Year (in advance)" · "Selamat Tahun Baru" · "Feliz Año Nuevo" · "Bonne Année".
Major celebrations in Sydney (first major harbor display), Tokyo, Hong Kong, Dubai (Burj Khalifa), Paris (Eiffel Tower), London (Big Ben & Thames), New York (Times Square), Rio (Copacabana beach). Hotel rates 2-5x normal. Public transport runs all night in many cities.