Noteworthy New Year’s Eve Traditions from Around the World
As the Christmas holidays draw to a close, it signals the imminent arrival of a new year. In Hong Kong, welcoming the new year often involves gathering with friends and family for the midnight countdown, with fireworks illuminating the sky over Victoria Harbour as the clock strikes twelve. Across the globe, New Year’s Eve traditions vary in different countries, with some inevitably exceeding our expectations and imaginations!
【Japan: Eating “Toshikoshi Soba” as a symbol for longevity】
On the last day of the year, known as “Omisoka” in Japan, the Japanese always enjoy a noodle dish called “Toshikoshi Soba,” in which the lengthened soba noodles symbolize longevity and good health. Furthermore, eating soba noodles, the softest type of noodles and hence the easiest to break, is seen as a symbol of cutting ties with misfortune in the coming year.
【France: Champagnes all-night to bid the year farewell】
In France, clearing out the wine cellar on New Year’s Eve not only marks the completion of a fruitful year, but also symbolises the riddance of bad luck in the upcoming year. Therefore, many French families host feasts on New Year’s Eve, gathering friends and families to indulge in a seemingly endless stream of champagne so that no leftover wine will be carried into the new year. The festivities often continue until 3rd January or until everyone is thoroughly snoring away with all the alcohol in their bellies.
【USA: Fish on the table】
Asian countries are not alone when it comes to emphasizing symbolisms for the New Year. On the other side of the world, many Americans have a New Year’s Eve tradition of serving fish on the dinner table, especially herrings, to symbolize auspiciousness and abundance in the coming year. The fact that some types of fish brave the river currents and swim upstream to spawn is seen as a symbol of defying the odds and succeeding in the new year. In particular, the Americans’ fondness for herrings originates from the fact that these fish often swim in large groups, which is regarded as symbolizing wealth and prosperity of the family.
Looking to experience New Year's traditions from around the world? Visit Lee Gardens to indulge in a diverse range of gourmet dining options! Alternatively, explore the unique dishes available on the hy! online platform and celebrate the New Year in the comfort of your own home! We wish you a joyful and prosperous 2024!