Celebrating New Beginnings: Global Traditions of the New Year. by Shalna Omaye - HTML preview

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Avoidances and Taboos

Certain actions and behaviors are often avoided during New Year's celebrations to prevent bad luck and misfortune. In many cultures, breaking dishes, borrowing or lending money, and opening umbrellas indoors are considered unlucky. In Switzerland, whistling is avoided on New Year's Eve, as it is believed to bring bad luck and prevent the return of the sun.