As the clock ticks down to the final days of 2025, the world is turning into one big celebratory arena. From attempts to break Guinness World Records in the UAE to medieval rituals in Europe, ORIENT has compiled some interesting facts about how different countries are preparing to enter a new cycle.
UAE: Battle for the Sky
The Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah has officially announced preparations for the largest fireworks display in history. Organizers plan to launch the largest single projectile and deploy over 2,300 drones simultaneously. The show will stretch for 6 kilometers along the coast. If all goes according to plan, 2026 will begin with a new world record.
Denmark: "Lucky" Dishes
If you see someone smashing a plate on a neighbor's door in Europe, don't rush to call the police. In Denmark, it's a sign of the highest favor. All year long, Danes collect old dishes to smash on their friends' doorsteps on New Year's Eve. It's believed that the more broken pieces you see on your door on the morning of January 1st, the more loyal friends you'll have in the new year.
South Africa: Furniture in Free Flight
In Johannesburg, there's a tradition that authorities fight every year: residents throw old furniture and even household appliances out of their windows. The rationale is simple: they need to radically make room for new happiness. This year, the city's police have stepped up patrols, urging people to "upgrade" in safer ways.
Australia: Santa on a Board
While the Northern Hemisphere dreams of snow, Sydney is preparing for one of the hottest holidays. Here, Santa Clauses traditionally trade their sleighs for surfboards. Hundreds of surfers in red caps are expected to take to the famous Bondi Beach to catch the "good luck wave" of 2026.
2026 Trends: Return to Reality
Social media analysts have noted an interesting trend: this year, the world has grown tired of "perfect" images generated by neural networks. The main hit of the 2026 gathering is said to be "sincere content"—blurred photos with real emotions, imperfectly decorated Christmas trees, and homey atmospheres. Authenticity is becoming the new luxury.
