New Year in Hungary is one of the most widely celebrated and important festivals in the country. The majority of the population in the country is of Catholic Christians and New Year is celebrated with much enthusiasm. This land locked country of continental Europe, has its own unique way of celebrating and welcoming New Year. The native customs of the Hungarians are very interesting and these customs are in full force during the celebrations of New Year's Eve in Hungary.
Some of the traditions that are attached to New Year in Hungary are maintained in the countryside where they are followed with great eagerness. New Year in Hungary does not only suggest the turning of the year or passage of time, but it also stands for the birth of new hopes, aspirations and fresh thoughts. The past regrets are forgotten and everyone welcomes the New Year with a positive frame of mind.
New Year's Eve in Hungary witnesses various popular traditions. On the day before the New Year, an effigy called “Jack Straw” is burnt. The Jack Straw represents everything that is evil, all the bad luck, adversity and the dashed hopes of the past year. The effigy is taken for a round if the whole village before it is burnt down completely.
In big cities, you will find many celebrations and light decorations on the New Year's Eve. Many parties are organized where the young and young at heart, with their friends, dance away the night. The first rays of the morning sun heralds a new beginning for all.
Besides the usual merry-making and parties there is also a New Year's ball and concert organized at the Hungarian State Opera House in Budapest. The colorful stalls on the streets of Budapest sell masks and noisy paper trumpets for the children.
New Year is the perfect time when the Hungarians make merry, visit their relatives, dine out and enjoy with their near and dear ones. Every one have their own way of enjoying the day but the motto is the same for all – leaving back the past and welcoming the New Year with all eagerness and zeal.
For more information on New Year in Hungary, visit travel.mapsofworld.
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