In various parts of the world, the observance of New Year celebrations differs based on cultural, religious, or political reasons. For instance, countries like Saudi Arabia prioritize the Islamic calendar over the Gregorian calendar, leading to minimal public New Year festivities. Afghanistan places more significance on the Persian New Year (Nowruz) celebrated on March 21, following the Islamic calendar. North Korea focuses on the Day of the Sun and the Korean New Year rather than the Gregorian New Year. Ethiopia celebrates its New Year, “Enkutatash,” in September, following its unique calendar system.
Similarly, Iran and other nations prioritize their cultural or traditional celebrations over the Gregorian New Year. As the world welcomes 2025, countries such as Christmas Island, New Zealand, Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Russia (Far East), Australia, Papua New Guinea, Guam, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, and Indonesia usher in the New Year at different times due to varying time zones. These diverse celebrations worldwide showcase the interconnectedness and rich diversity of our global community as we embrace the new year ahead.