New Year’s greetings are more than just words exchanged at midnight; they encapsulate hopes, dreams, and reflections on the past year. At the stroke of midnight on December 31, families, friends, and sometimes strangers around the globe embrace one another with wishes for health, happiness, and prosperity as they welcome the New Year, 2025. Yet, the atmosphere of these celebrations can vary drastically depending on cultural contexts and current societal sentiments.
For many countries, the start of the New Year brings unbridled excitement, but for others, it calls for cautious optimism. A poignant illustration of this difference is seen in Colombia, where rather than exuberant expectations for 2025, citizens embraced more pressing concerns. Here, the prevalent sentiment was not to wish for grand fortunes, but rather to hope for a lighter year—one not weighed down by the troubles of the presidency led by the Pacto Histórico.
According to reports, many Colombians are treading lightly as they navigate their new reality. “What we wish for is not the great plans we traditionally expect,” shared local observer Gabriel Silva. With the administration of President Gustavo Petro often criticized for its inability to create sustainable change, it seems many are hoping merely to survive 2025, distinguishing it from the perceived challenges of the current government. Silva noted, “The general wish is for 2025 to be less burdensome, allowing us to swiftly reach 2026.”
The patience of the Colombian populace appears tested as they face structural adversities exacerbated by governmental policies rather than alleviated by them. The optimism surrounding the administration’s initial promises has largely faded, and many feel stuck waiting for the upcoming year, which they hope will usher in significant political changes.
Critics like Silva have expressed concern about the potential for political manipulation under the current regime. He pointed out the risks to the political Constitution and the notion of change as the government persistently introduces measures perceived to undermine democratic institutions. He argues, “Protecting the Constitution must become our priority if we are to see any semblance of hope by 2026.”
Contrastingly, as Colombia approaches the New Year with trepidation, Japan welcomes 2025—the Year of the Snake—with enthusiasm and joy. Celebrated across the country, customs of New Year greetings flourish. The traditional sentiment is filled with optimism and good fortune, as many Japanese people believe the Snake symbolizes prosperity and financial luck.
Japanese greeting practices are rich and vibrant. Radio Japan noted, “New Year greetings aren’t confined strictly to the first of January; they often extend until the Day of Kings on January 6.” Many people exchange good wishes during casual meetings or even with friends they haven’t seen since before the New Year.
Postcard exchanges are particularly popular, with senders wishing the recipients the best luck and fortune for the year. Many cards feature designs reflecting the animal of the year—in 2025, adorably illustrated serpents are likely to adorn these cards. “I decided to turn the year 2025 numbers themselves—2 and 5—into the shape of a cute white snake,” explained one enthusiastic sender.
Perhaps one of the more notable aspects of the New Year celebrations is Japan’s deep-rooted cultural practice involving “goshuin,” or sacred seals, bestowed upon visitors to temples and shrines. Poised as unique keepsakes, these seals can showcase beautiful designs representative of the New Year and the specific temple’s craftsmanship. Visitors may receive seals during their first shrine visits of the year, making the city alive with energy and cultural expression. One visitor recounted, “It was delightful to receive special seals, which also happen to be collectibles for many.”
While the spirits of optimism and hope resonate strongly within Japan’s New Year traditions, the contemplative and cautious approach witnessed in Colombia serves as a reminder of diverging cultural attitudes at this significant juncture.
On both fronts, from Colombia’s anticipation of political transformation to Japan’s vibrant traditions, the arrival of 2025 signifies much more than just the passage of time. For some, it is a chance to renew commitments, embrace tradition, and prioritize positive aspirations—while for others, it serves as recognition of the work still required for meaningful change. Indeed, as families around the world exchange their greetings, the hope persists for 2025 to be filled with promise, reflection, and resilience regardless of the geographical divide.
Whether through the whispered wishes for lighter burdens or the applause for the adventures of the New Year, the spirit of renewal and hope remains at the heart of this universal celebration.