Nidhi Kadere
In Spain, people eat 12 grapes at midnight, one for each month of the year, to bring good luck and prosperity.
In Scotland, the first person to enter a house after midnight is called the first footer, and they should bring gifts such as coal, salt, shortbread, and whiskey for good fortune.
In the Netherlands, people eat deep-fried dough balls to ward off evil spirits and protect them from Perchta, a goddess who cuts open the bellies of those who don't eat enough.
In Japan, people eat soba noodles, which symbolise longevity and the crossing from one year to the next. They also ring bells 108 times to cleanse themselves of the 108 worldly desires.
In France, people enjoy a lavish feast called "le réveillon de la Saint-Sylvestre," which may include delicacies such as foie gras, oysters, lobster, and escargot. They also toast with champagne and kiss under the mistletoe.
In Italy, people wear red underwear for luck and eat lentils for wealth. They also throw old things out of the window to make room for the new year.
In Colombia, people carry suitcases around the block to attract travel opportunities in the new year. They also place three potatoes under their bed: one peeled, one unpeeled, and one half-peeled, and pick one at random to determine their financial fate.
In Brazil, people wear white clothes and jump over seven waves in the ocean, making a wish for each one. They also offer flowers and candles to Yemoja, the goddess of the sea.
In Ecuador, people make Monigotes (doll or puppet) that represent the old year and burn them at midnight to get rid of the bad things that happened. They also wear yellow underwear for happiness or red for love.
In Denmark, people smash old plates and glasses against the doors of their friends and neighbours to show their affection. They also stand on chairs and jump off them at midnight to leap into the new year.