2025: Four Countries That Won’t Celebrate New Year And Why

As the clock ticks closer to 2025, the world gears up to usher in a new year with celebrations marked by fireworks, cultural festivities, and moments of reflection. However, not every nation is preparing for this milestone with joy and grandeur.

In certain countries, the arrival of 2025 will be greeted with silence, caution, or solemnity due to unique circumstances rooted in political turmoil, economic instability, cultural restrictions, or national tragedies.

This year, at least four nations have found themselves unable to partake in the traditional New Year festivities. Hence, Osun Defender delves into the stories of these four countries, exploring the reasons behind their subdued New Year and what their experiences reveal about broader global issues.

1. Ethiopia: The Ethiopian Calendar

Ethiopia is a land of ancient traditions and unique cultural identities, including its own calendar system. The Ethiopian calendar, based on the Coptic calendar, comprises 13 months—12 of which have 30 days, while the 13th month, Pagumē, has five or six days depending on the leap year.

The Ethiopian New Year, known as Enkutatash, falls on Meskerem 1, which corresponds to September 11 or 12 in the Gregorian calendar. Interestingly, Ethiopia is about seven to eight years behind the Gregorian calendar, meaning that as the rest of the world enters 2025, Ethiopia will still be in 2017.

2. Nepal: Vikram Samvat And Nepal Sambat

Nepal embraces two traditional calendar systems—Vikram Samvat and Nepal Sambat—making it one of the most unique timekeeping cultures globally. Vikram Samvat, a lunisolar calendar, is the official calendar of Nepal and is approximately 57 years ahead of the Gregorian calendar.

Additionally, the Nepal Sambat, a lunar calendar, is used by the Newar community and runs on its own timeline, adding another layer of distinction to the nation’s calendar traditions. The official New Year celebration in Nepal, called Bisket Jatra, typically falls in April. Hence, January 1 is not a significant date in Nepal.

3. Iran: The Solar Hijri Calendar

Iran follows the Solar Hijri calendar, which is one of the most accurate solar calendars in the world. This system begins with the vernal equinox, marking the first day of spring. The Iranian New Year, known as Nowruz, falls around March 21 and is celebrated with elaborate customs and rituals that date back over 3,000 years.

For Iranians, January 1 is an ordinary winter day, with their focus firmly set on the arrival of spring and the renewal it symbolises.

4. Afghanistan: The Solar Hijri Calendar

Afghanistan also uses the Solar Hijri calendar, aligning its timekeeping closely with Iran. Similarly, Nowruz marks the New Year in Afghanistan, celebrated with feasts, family gatherings, and cultural events.

Afghanistan’s rich history and adherence to its traditional calendar reflect its cultural pride and resistance to adopting the Gregorian system, making it one of the few nations where January 1 holds no special significance.

Why These Calendars Persist

The use of non-Gregorian calendars by Ethiopia, Nepal, Iran, and Afghanistan highlights their dedication to preserving cultural heritage and resisting colonial influences.

These calendars are more than systems of timekeeping; they embody historical and spiritual traditions that remain integral to their national identities.

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