New Year's Celebrations in Europe
New Year celebrations are highlighted with dazzling lights and noisy crackers. Bonfires and fireworks are seen all around. People of Europe splurge in night parties, sumptuous dinners, drinks and dances. There are live concerts and shows specially organized for New Year.
New Year Parades are the most entertaining part of the celebrations. A very big New Year parade takes place in Rome every year. Thousands of people gather at St.Peter's Square to receive the blessings of the Pope.
In Northern Europe, a famous New Year ceremony take place. It is called 'Up-Helly-Aa'. The locals of this area dress up like Vikings and parade around the main town of Lerwick. They hold burning torchlights to cast away darkness in the area. This ceremony ends up with launching a burning Viking ship and bonfires.