Germany
In Germany, most of the traditions are meant to predict the future and bring luck in the new year. It is customary to light fireworks, torches and candles at midnight. These were originally meant to scare off evil spirits and bring good things. Today, it's more for the fun of seeing the sky lit up in colors. Another typical custom is pouring lead. Small pieces of lead are melted over a flame and, once liquid, poured into a bowl of water. The shapes that form are then interpreted into different shapes, which are believed to predict what the future holds. Small pigs, chimney sweeps or four-leafed clovers, often made of marzipan, are given as gifts to bring luck in the new year.