United States of America: The USA is the home to a melting pot of cultures which extends itself to the diverse holidays that are celebrated at this time of the year. These holidays include Christmas, Kwanzaa (celebration of the African heritage in African-American culture) and Hanukkah (Jewish festival of lights).
Omisoka (Japan): This is celebrated the day before the New Year. Noodles are often eaten as "a sign of long life" and crossing from one year to the next. Those who celebrate tend to go to shrines or temples and drink Amazake.
Ta Chiu (Hong Kong): This involves praying to the god or gods of their ancestors and asking for their wishes to be fulfilled within the coming year.
St. Stephen's Day/ Wren Day (Ireland): On December 26, children go door to door singing, holding with holly bush and a fake wren (song bird). They ask for money for the “starving wren”.
Sviata Vechera (Ukraine): Also known as “Holy Supper”, this celebratory dinner includes 12 dishes that represent the 12 apostles. There is no meat or milk products but fish is included in the dinner.