CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - A new year often brings a new resolution for many, but there are numerous unique ways to embrace both tried-and-true and fresh rituals to usher in 2025. Whether you prefer to write down your New Year's resolutions or actively drop old habits and lifestyle choices, you may be surprised to learn about the many traditions observed across the globe to welcome the new year. Times Square ball drop, Manhattan, NY, United States Few traditions in America shine brighter than the ball drop in Times Square. Many consider it one of the most iconic New Year's Eve events, as millions tune in to witness the crystal ball descend in downtown Manhattan. This moment symbolizes the excitement and optimism that come with the arrival of a new year. Kicking off the new year with black-eyed peas, United States One long-standing tradition in the southern United States involves eating black-eyed peas as the first meal of the year. It is believed that this practice brings good luck to those who partake. Often paired with collard greens and cornbread, this meal is said to attract wealth and prosperity. Twelve grapes at midnight, Spain Looking for a unique way to attract good fortune? In Spain, it’s a tradition to eat 12 grapes as the clock strikes midnight. Known as “Las doce uvas de la suerte,” this ritual represents the 12 chimes of the clock and the 12 months of the year ahead. Consuming the grapes is believed to ensure a year filled with prosperity and happiness. Empty luggage stroll, Colombia No airport is necessary for this New Year’s ritual. In Colombia, locals walk around their neighborhoods carrying empty suitcases to symbolize their desire to travel more in the coming year. This whimsical custom reflects a hope for adventure and a life filled with new experiences. Peppermint pig smash, Saratoga Springs, NY, United States A local tradition in Saratoga Springs, New York, involves breaking a peppermint pig made of hard candy with a small hammer. This custom dates back to the 19th century and symbolizes good luck and communal cheer. Participants share the broken candy pieces with friends and family as a gesture of unity and hope. Polka dots and round fruits, Philippines In the Philippines, polka dots are worn on New Year’s Eve as a symbol of prosperity. The circular design represents coins and wealth, making polka-dot attire a lucky choice for the occasion. Another tradition involves eating 12 round fruits, such as oranges or grapes, which symbolize abundance and sweetness in the year ahead. Cemetery celebration, Chile, South America In Chile, New Year’s Eve includes visiting cemeteries to honor deceased loved ones. Families gather to pray, bring flowers, and toast with food and champagne. Far from being somber, this ritual is a heartfelt way to celebrate the lives of the departed and connect with their memory as the new year begins. Sing the classic tune "Auld Lang Syne," Scotland The Scots mark Hogmanay, their New Year’s celebration, by singing the classic tune “Auld Lang Syne.” This nostalgic anthem, which translates to “times long past,” is a heartfelt way to bid farewell to the old year while cherishing memories and friendships. It has since become a global tradition, often sung as hands are joined and spirits are lifted at midnight. Wear white and jump waves, Brazil On New Year’s Eve, Brazilians often dress in white to symbolize peace and purification. At midnight, many head to the beach to jump over seven waves, each representing a wish for the new year. The ritual, dedicated to Lemanjá, the Goddess of the Sea, is both a celebration of nature and a spiritual gesture seeking blessings. Burning dolls, Ecuador Ecuadorians say goodbye to the old year by burning effigies, or “años viejos,” made to resemble figures from the past year. The flames are thought to cleanse negativity and create space for fresh beginnings. These effigies are often creative and humorous, adding a sense of communal fun to this reflective tradition. Chair jumping, Denmark In Denmark, people literally leap into the new year by standing on chairs and jumping off at the stroke of midnight. This playful tradition is said to bring good luck and symbolize leaving behind the past while embracing the opportunities ahead. The act of leaping represents optimism and a proactive step into the future. Hang your onions, Greece Hanging onions on doors is a Greek New Year’s custom meant to symbolize growth and renewal. The onion, known for its ability to sprout even after being uprooted, is a metaphor for resilience and new beginnings. Families believe it brings health and longevity, ensuring a prosperous year. First sunrise, Australia In Australia, many people gather at scenic spots like beaches or mountain peaks to watch the first sunrise of the new year. The early morning ritual, often accompanied by picnics or quiet reflection, is a way to embrace new possibilities and start the year with clarity and peace. These traditions highlight the diverse ways people celebrate the new year. Each practice, whether deeply rooted in culture or simply a fun custom, reflects the universal hope for prosperity, joy, and renewal as we welcome the possibilities of a fresh start. Local News Headlines Bright Nights in Springfield ends Sunday night New Year’s traditions around the world How to best tackle your 2025 fitness goals New Registers of Deeds sworn in WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.