About New Year's Day
New Year's Day, or Año Nuevo, is celebrated on January 1st in Bolivia, marking the beginning of the new year. It is a time for reflection, renewal, and celebration, where people come together to bid farewell to the past year and welcome new beginnings.
New Year's Day is a public holiday in Bolivia. In 2025, it falls on Wednesday, January 1. In the local language, this holiday is known as "Año Nuevo". This holiday does not fall on the same date every year — its date varies annually.
This is a national holiday, observed throughout all of Bolivia. Most businesses, government offices, and schools are closed on this day.
Traditions & Customs
In Bolivia, New Year's celebrations often include a mix of indigenous and Spanish traditions. People celebrate with family gatherings, fireworks, and the popular tradition of wearing colorful underwear for good luck, as well as the ritual of burning effigies called 'Año Viejo' to symbolize letting go of the past.
Did You Know?
One interesting fact about Año Nuevo in Bolivia is that many people also celebrate the Andean New Year, known as 'Inti Raymi,' which occurs around the winter solstice in June, blending both indigenous and modern customs.
Holiday Details
| Holiday Name | New Year's Day |
| Local Name | Año Nuevo |
| Date | Wednesday, January 1, 2025 |
| Country |  Bolivia |
| Type | Public |
| Scope | National — observed throughout the country |
| Fixed Date | No — date varies annually |
Holiday Greeting
"¡Feliz Año Nuevo!"
Frequently Asked Questions
What special foods are prepared for New Year's celebrations in Bolivia?
Traditional Bolivian foods such as 'pique a lo macho' and 'salteñas' are often enjoyed during New Year's celebrations. Families also prepare special drinks like 'chicha' to toast the new year.
Are there any specific rituals performed at midnight?
At midnight, it is common for Bolivians to make a wish while holding a piece of yellow underwear, which is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year. Many also engage in the tradition of walking around the block with a suitcase to attract travel opportunities.
How do Bolivians incorporate indigenous traditions into New Year's celebrations?
Bolivians often blend indigenous customs with modern celebrations, such as performing rituals to Pachamama (Mother Earth) to ask for blessings in the new year. This includes offerings of food and coca leaves at altars set up in homes.
When is New Year's Day 2025 in Bolivia?
New Year's Day 2025 in Bolivia falls on Wednesday, January 1, 2025.
Is New Year's Day a public holiday in Bolivia?
Yes, New Year's Day is a public holiday in Bolivia. It is observed nationwide.
Is New Year's Day on the same date every year?
New Year's Day does not have a fixed date and varies from year to year.
Costa Rica
Australia
Bulgaria
Benin
Brazil
Bahamas
Botswana
Belize
Canada
Congo
Switzerland
China