New Year Traditions Worldwide: Hogmanay in Scotland, Oshōgatsu in Japan and Nowruz in Iran — Three Special New Year Celebrations
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Educational cultural page comparing three unique New Year traditions from around the world. Three illustrated panels: 1) Scotland — Hogmanay (December 31/January 1): a large bonfire blazing in Edinburgh streets, people in kilts dancing around it; 'first footing' tradition (first person after midnight brings coal, shortbread, whisky, black bun and salt — each symbolising warmth, food, prosperity, happiness, flavour); people singing 'Auld Lang Syne'. Edinburgh fireworks visible over the castle. 2) Japan — Oshōgatsu (January 1-3): Japan's most important holiday — family gathered for the first sunrise (Hatsuhinode), visiting a Shinto shrine for Hatsumōde, eating osechi (special lacquerware bento boxes) and ozōni (mochi soup). A kadomatsu (bamboo and pine New Year decoration) at the entrance. 3) Iran/Persian — Nowruz (March 20/21): Haft-sin table with 7 symbolic 'S' items: sabzeh, seer, sib, senjed, sekke, somaq, serkeh — plus a goldfish bowl, mirror, decorated eggs, candles, holy book. Family in new clothes gathered around the table.
