New Year observed in Zimbabwe ― Date, History, and Details
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History of New Year observed in Zimbabwe and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
The history of New Year’s celebrations in Zimbabwe is rooted in ancient African traditions. In the Shona culture, which is the largest ethnic group in the country, New Year’s Day was traditionally celebrated by singing and dancing to ask for a prosperous new year. It was also believed that on this day ancestral spirits would come down from the heavens to visit their descendants and offer blessings.
In modern times, New Year’s Day is still celebrated with great enthusiasm in Zimbabwe. People gather together to share meals and exchange gifts. Fireworks are lit to ward off evil spirits, and traditional music and dances are performed. On New Year’s Day, many people take time to reflect on the previous year and set goals for the upcoming one.
To observe New Year’s Day in Zimbabwe, people usually attend church services and then have a celebratory family meal. As part of the festivities, they exchange gifts and play games. They also light fireworks and set off firecrackers to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck for the coming year. Throughout the day, people enjoy traditional music, dance, and storytelling. On New Year’s Eve, people stay up late to welcome in the New Year at midnight.