New Year's Traditions Around the World

What was the name of the ancient Babylonian festival that marked the new year?

• Akitu

• Hogmanay

• Janus

• Auld Lang Syne

Which Roman god was honored by establishing January 1 as the first day of the year in the Julian calendar?

• Janus

• Marduk

• Zeus

• Apollo

In which country is it traditional to eat 12 grapes at midnight for good luck in the coming year?

• Spain

• Colombia

• Denmark

• Philippines

What do people in Denmark do to banish bad spirits on New Year's Eve?

• Throw old plates and glasses against doors

• Eat 12 grapes at midnight

• Carry empty suitcases around the block

• Burn effigies of well-known figures

What is the significance of wearing red underwear in Brazil during New Year's celebrations?

• It symbolizes love

• It symbolizes money

• It symbolizes prosperity

• It symbolizes rebirth