New Year Traditions in the USA

What unusual item is raised into the sky in Boise, Idaho during New Year's celebrations?

• A Christmas tree

• A large balloon

• A giant potato

• A snowman

Answer explanation

In the city of Boise, Idaho, for several years now, every New Year, a five-meter glowing potato rises into the sky. At the same time, skiing and snowboarding competitions are held, as well as wrestling, in which the winner becomes the potato belt champion. Just imagine such a picture: a huge potato on the background of fireworks and a joyful crowd! And the thing is that Idaho is considered the "most potato—growing state" - about a third of all potatoes in the country are grown here.

What is the traditional New Year's dish known as 'Hoppin' John' made from?

• Pasta and cheese

• Cornbread and greens

• Black-eyed peas, rice, and bacon

• Chicken and dumplings

Answer explanation

The traditional New Year's dish in the USA is "Jumping John", which is served more often in the south of the country. It is made from black-eyed peas, onions, bacon and rice. It is believed that the dish promotes wealth and good luck in the new year. It is customary to eat "Jumping John" on January 1, and its remains are called "Jumping Jenny", which symbolizes the thrift of the owners and also brings good luck in the new year. There is a saying associated with this dish: "On this day, eat poorly, and on the rest of the year — richly," she explains the choice of products of such a recipe.

Which tradition involves biting into pickled herring at midnight?

• A Polish and Norwegian custom

• A Mexican celebration

• A French tradition

• An Italian feast

Answer explanation

This tradition came to the United States thanks to Polish and Norwegian migrants. So, in these countries, it is customary to take a bite of pickled herring at midnight on New Year's Eve to summon good luck in the coming year. The fish also symbolizes long life, fertility and wealth (because of its silver color, similar to a coin). For example, in Chicago, where a large number of Polish Americans live, buffets and cafes are decorated with fish on the eve of the holiday.

What is the purpose of the 'Polar Bear Plunge' on January 1st?

• To raise money for charity

• To celebrate the New Year

• To promote winter sports

• To honor the environment

Answer explanation

On January 1, in many American cities, many people go swimming in some reservoirs or in bays. Why do people do this? Some people dive just for the thrill, but usually such events in America are a way to raise funds for charity

What happens during the 'Possum Drop' in Georgia?

• An opossum is lowered from a height on a balloon

• A possum is cooked and served

• A possum is released into the wild

• A possum race takes place

Answer explanation

In one of the cities of the state, a local businessman organizes an annual festive event. In addition to fireworks, fairs and music, the event includes the so-called "possum drop". Spencer (that's the name of the possum) is suspended in a wire ball wrapped with Christmas lights. Closer to 12 o'clock, the animal is lifted onto the roof of the building, and at midnight, amid cheers and applause, it is slowly lowered to the ground to mark the beginning of the new year. It is important to note that the possum is not alive, it is stuffed.

What unique event occurs at the ski resort in Vail, Colorado on New Year's Eve?

• A ski race

• A snow sculpture contest

• A fireworks display

• A torchlight parade

Answer explanation

Magic happens every New Year at the Vail Ski Resort in Colorado. Ski instructors and locals with glow sticks in their hands form a trail going down the mountain. It turns out to be a very beautiful picture! Everyone can watch the parade at the foot of the mountain under the fireworks.

What is celebrated during the Carp Festival in Prairie du Chien?

• Carp breeding exhibitions

• Carp races

• Carp cooking competitions

• Ice fishing and carp painting

Answer explanation

Anglers come to Prairie du Chien for ice fishing a week before the New Year, when the carp festival is celebrated. The holiday includes activities such as carp coloring and a meeting with the King and Queen of Carp. And the most important thing is lowering a 30—kilogram carp onto the "throne", where everyone can kiss the fish for good luck.

What happens in Panama City, Florida during New Year's celebrations?

• A giant sandcastle is built

• A concert is held on the beach

• 10,000 beach balls drop from the sky

• A parade of floats occurs

Answer explanation

In the resort town of Panama City in Florida, 10,000 small inflatable beach balls fall on the heads of guests on the beach every New Year. This event was even included in the list of the best New Year's Eve parties for family holidays according to USA Today.