New Year in Cabo Verde

Date & History: New Year's Day in Cabo Verde, or "Ano Novo," is celebrated on January 1st, as in many countries around the world. This holiday marks the beginning of the new year according to the Gregorian calendar. The archipelago was discovered by the Portuguese in the 15th century, and New Year celebrations have since been influenced by a blend of Portuguese traditions and local customs.

Traditions: Cabo Verdeans typically celebrate New Year's Eve with family gatherings and festive meals, where traditional foods like "cachupa," a slow-cooked stew of corn, beans, and meat or fish, may be served. The night is often punctuated by music and dance, as music plays a central role in Cabo Verdean culture.

At midnight, fireworks displays are common in larger towns and cities as people welcome the new year. It's also traditional to attend church services on New Year's Eve or Day to pray for prosperity and good fortune for the coming year.

Activities: On New Year's Day itself, many people continue to enjoy time with family and friends. In urban areas like Praia or Mindelo, public concerts and festivities may take place. It’s also common for people to visit each other’s homes to exchange well-wishes for the new year.

Beach outings are popular during this time as well since December and January fall within the dry season in Cabo Verde when the weather is typically warm but not excessively hot. Many locals take advantage of this pleasant climate to start their new year with relaxation on one of the country's many beautiful beaches.