New Year's Celebrations: South Queensferry Loony Dook

Okay, here's a New Year’s tradition that is a bit frosty to say the least - how about a Loony Dook dip? 

Perhaps, you’ve heard of the Polar Bear Plunge, well, near Edinburgh you can take a dip at the world Famous Loony Dook, which is part of the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Festival. This event raises funds for area charities, and what a better way to start off the New Year than by helping others.

On New Year’s day there will be the Dookers’ Parade, which is led by the Beastie Drummers. Then, all  the Loonies will gather for the Dook that will have almost 1000 brave Loonies who will dive into the freezing waters of the Forth Estuary in the shadow of the iconic Forth Bridge. For those on the sidelines, you can cheer these brave souls at various vantage points along the route or down on the beach. Afterwards, stop in for a pint and a bite at one of the pubs, cafes or restaurants in South Queensferry.

What is your favorite way to ring in the New Year?

Plan Your Trip To Edinburgh, Scotland

For news on the upcoming Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Festival and the Loony Dook use this link.

To explore travel options for your trip to Edinburgh, Scotland visit their website.

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New Year's Celebrations: Indianapolis Indy 500 Car Drop and More Festivities

Our celebration of New Year’s continue's by sharing traditions from around the globe. And, right here in Indiana we ring in the New Year on Georgia Street with family and friends!

In the spirit of racing, Indianapolis invites race fans from around the world to join them on Georgia Street for a countdown to the New Year with a unique twist; Indy 500 Car Drop.

Before the countdown to midnight you’ll have plenty of activities to enjoy at the interactive sports zone in Entry Pavilion at Bankers Life Fieldhouse with the Pacers, Fever, Colts, Indians, Fever, Indy Eleven and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. As for music, there are plenty of parties where you can hit the dance floor or just enjoy great music and welcome in the New Year.

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis host popular New Year's events. This is a chance to end the year with a bang with a family-friendly, alcohol-free celebration in the Governor Frank and Judy O'Bannon Great Hall.  There will be face painting, stilt walkers, clowns and music throughout the evening. A balloon drop takes place at 8 p.m. which is ideal for letting the little ones to celebrate the New Year in style. 

Everyone can celebrate the New Year at parties to join in and around Downtown Indy. These are among some of the festivities to enjoy:

• The Family New Year’s Eve, Indiana State Museum
• New Year’s Eve at the Indianapolis Museum of Art
• New Year’s Eve at the Slippery Noodle Inn

What is your favorite way to ring in the New Year?

Plan Your New Year's Activities:

These are just a sample of the exciting festivities to enjoy. There are many attractions, sites, and tasty treats at local restaurants to enjoy on your visit to Indy so visit the Indianapolis Convention and Visitor's Bureau website to plan your trip.

Also visit Indianapolis Downtown Inc. at www.indydt.com for more events and news for your trip.

Photo Credits: Visit Indy

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New Year's Celebrations: Hanshan Temple Bell Ringing Festival

The celebration of New Year’s is filled with traditions, and we're sharing some of our favorite events from around the globe. So, as the clock starts to chime grab your broom and sweep away all the troubles of the past year, and welcome in the New Year with a fresh, clean start. 

In Suzhou, China you can literally ring in the New Year at the Hanshan Temple Bell Ringing Festival. The Hanshan Temple is among the most famous temples in China. In ancient times the monks at the 1400-year-old temple struck the bell at midnight to remind people a new day was dawning. 

According to local legend it is said that each layman has 108 kinds of annoyances per year. Of course, who has really stopped to count them all, but 108 sounds about right. To hear the bell toll is said to dispel one kind of annoyance. So, when you listen to all 108 bell tolls on New Year Eve you will have good luck and happiness in the coming year.

Join the New Year’s Eve feast before the bell ringing that includes performances of traditional music and dance. Within the ancient halls of the temple you’ll find colorful dragon lanterns and decorations evoking wishes for an auspicious New Year. As the evening progresses you’ll hear the monks chanting Buddhist sutras, and then silence as all who have gathered listens respectfully as the bell is rung 108 times. Listen closely, and you’ll hear the last echoes of the bell before the explosion of countless firecrackers celebrate the welcoming of the New Year.

Check back for more New Year's Traditions throughout the month!

Plan your Trip To The Hanshan Temple Bell Ringing Festival

To learn more about the Hanshan Temple Bell Ringing Festival and plan your visit go to their website.

What is your favorite way to ring in the New Year?

Photo Credits: China Daily, Official Travel and Tourism Website for Suzhou

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