New Year’s traditions span the globe, each culture adding its unique flavor to welcome a fresh start. I spoke to Junior Jonah Stuckey about what his family traditions are for New Year’s Eve, and this is what he had to say: “It’s nothing crazy, we just take down the Christmas tree, then we bake brownies or cookies together as a family. After that, we watch the ball drop and say hello to the new year.” In Spain, revelers consume 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight, symbolizing luck for each month ahead. Meanwhile, in Japan, the ringing of temple bells 108 times signifies the dispelling of worldly desires. Scotland embraces “Hogmanay,” a celebration lasting days with fire festivals and “first-footing,” where the first person to cross a threshold after midnight brings luck for the year. In the southern United States, black-eyed peas and collard greens symbolize wealth and prosperity, enjoyed as a New Year’s meal. Fireworks light up skies worldwide, from Sydney’s iconic display over the Opera House to New York City’s glittering Times Square. In Denmark, broken dishes left on friends’ doorsteps indicate camaraderie and signify new bonds. Russia’s “New Year Tree” resembles the Western Christmas tree, adorned with lights and decorations. Ultimately, these traditions, whether rooted in superstition, symbolism, or festivity, unite people globally in bidding farewell to the past and welcoming the possibilities of a brand-new year, fostering hope, joy, and a sense of community across diverse cultures and traditions.