The New Year has already arrived in some parts of the world. Tonga and Somoa are among the first countries in the world to welcome the new year.
Australia, Japan, South Korea and small parts of Russia and Indonesia are some of the locations that first welcome the new year.
Among the last place to see in the new year are small outlying islands in the U.S. like Baker Island and Howland Island, although it must be noted that these are uninhabited.
Different parts of the world celebrate the new year with various traditions. The town mayor of Talca, central Chile, opens the graveyard after late-night mass so locals can see the new year in company of their dead relatives. Thousands sit among candles while classical music is played.
Some Romanians break out their best bear costumes and furs and dance to celebrate the new year. This is believed to ward off evil.
