Every January 1st the world puts on a giant party to bring in the new year. But January 1st isn’t the only time for beginnings. Throughout every season, you’ll find different cultures across the globe throwing their own new year celebrations. Check out these New Year holidays that fall on days other than January 1st.
Chinese New Year
One of the most widely celebrated holidays across the globe, the Chinese New Year is calculated based on a lunar calendar and always falls somewhere between January 21 and February 20. This lively holiday is marked with a big feast, fireworks, parades, and lots of red decorations (red being an auspicious color in China). Oh yeah, and don’t forget the moola; giving out envelopes of cash is par the course!
Nowruz
Also known as the Persian New Year, the Iranian New Year of Nowruz is celebrated in different parts of the Middle East and Central Asia. It falls on the Vernal equinox in March and traces its roots all the way back to Pre-Islamic Zoroastrianism. A holiday that centers on spring and new life, Nowruz is observed with traditional foods, new clothes, and special visits to relatives. For visits, it’s custom to start with the eldest relative and work your way down the family tree.
Rosh Hashanah
The Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, is a holiday for reflecting on the past year and one’s relationship with God. Rosh Hashanah falls sometime in September or October, depending on the year, and includes a dinner with traditional foods and prayers. During religious services, a ram’s horn known as a shafar is sounded.
Nyepi
ind yourself in Bali during Nyepi and you’ll be met with silence. Literally known as a “Day of Silence”, this holiday takes place in March and is observed with utter peace and quiet. Airports close, traffic shuts down, and stores are boarded up. At night, all lights are turned off. But it isn’t all seriousness. The night before is a rowdy affair, where large figures of evil spirits are paraded through the streets and burned to ward off evil.
Aluth Avurudu
Celebrated in Sri Lanka, the Sinhala holiday of Aluth Avurudu falls in April and celebrates the point at which the sun moves directly above Sri Lanka. This time of year is honored with plenty of household cleaning (sometimes even a fresh coat of paint) and the preparing of sweetmeats.