Offering a captivating exploration of New Year traditions around the globe, Ringing in the New: New Year Traditions Around the World debuts Friday, Dec. 6, at the Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures.
The opening ceremony for the Main Gallery display will begin at 6 pm, and traditional New Year snacks and champagne will be served. The Museum will be open from 5-8 pm with free admission for First Friday Art Walk, and Lorna’s Swingset will provide live jazz entertainment.
“The exhibit will highlight the rich diversity of customs and practices that mark the universal occasion of the New Year,” said Kat Bertram, the Museum’s Volunteer and Collections Manager. “Visitors will journey through a variety of cultural traditions in different countries and regions. The history of the Gregorian calendar, established in 1582, will provide context on why many cultures celebrate New Year’s Day on January 1.”
In Ireland, for example, the New Year is celebrated by banging pots and setting an extra place at the table for a departed loved one. In Latin America, walking around the block with an empty suitcase signifies a full year of travel. Pottery is broken on doorsteps in Denmark to bring fortune.
“By showcasing these and other traditions, the exhibit will provide an educational and immersive experience that celebrates the global diversity of New Year customs,” Bertram said. “It will offer visitors a chance to reflect on the varied ways in which people around the world welcome the New Year.” The exhibit runs through Jan. 25, 2025.
Huxian Painting Showing Chinese New Year Traditions
The Global Village Museum has four galleries, an international music room, handmade Tibetan dolls in the Losel Doll House, and a gnome scavenger hunt for children. The Museum is located at 200 West Mountain Avenue, and Museum hours are 11 am to 5 pm Tuesday through Saturday. For more information and closure dates during the change of exhibits, visit globalvillagemuseum.org or call 970-221-4600.
Dragon and Phoenix Drum by Zhao Shengtao, 2000.