List Of Countries That Won’t Celebrate New Year

Ethiopia: The Ethiopian Calendar

Ethiopia’s distinct calendar, based on the ancient Coptic system, consists of 13 months—12 of 30 days each, with the 13th month, Pagumē, having either five or six days, depending on whether it’s a leap year. The Ethiopian New Year, called Enkutatash, falls on Meskerem 1, typically corresponding to September 11 or 12 in the Gregorian calendar. Due to this calendar’s unique structure, Ethiopia is approximately seven to eight years behind the Gregorian system. Therefore, while the rest of the world ushers in 2025, Ethiopia will still be in 2017.

Nepal: Vikram Samvat and Nepal Sambat

Nepal has two traditional calendar systems in use: Vikram Samvat and Nepal Sambat, adding a fascinating complexity to the country’s timekeeping. Vikram Samvat, the official lunisolar calendar, is roughly 57 years ahead of the Gregorian calendar. Additionally, the Nepal Sambat, a lunar calendar, is used by the Newar community and follows its own cycle, further enriching Nepal’s unique approach to time. Nepal’s main New Year celebration, Bisket Jatra, occurs in April, meaning January 1 holds no particular significance for most Nepalis.

Iran: The Solar Hijri Calendar

Iran follows the Solar Hijri calendar, one of the most accurate solar calendars in the world. Its year begins with the vernal equinox, marking the first day of spring. The Iranian New Year, Nowruz, is celebrated around March 21 with a variety of festive rituals that have been practiced for over 3,000 years. As a result, January 1 is an ordinary winter day in Iran, and the country’s focus is on the arrival of spring rather than the Gregorian New Year.

Afghanistan: The Solar Hijri Calendar

Like Iran, Afghanistan uses the Solar Hijri calendar, meaning their New Year, Nowruz, also coincides with the arrival of spring. This ancient celebration involves large gatherings, feasts, and cultural events. Afghanistan’s adherence to the Solar Hijri calendar reinforces the country’s cultural identity and its resistance to adopting the Gregorian system. As with Iran, January 1 is not recognized as the start of the new year.

Why These Calendars Persist

The continued use of these non-Gregorian calendars in Ethiopia, Nepal, Iran, and Afghanistan underscores the importance of preserving cultural heritage and resisting the influence of colonial powers.

These calendars are more than just timekeeping systems; they are deeply intertwined with each country’s history, spirituality, and national identity.

By adhering to these traditional calendars, these nations maintain a connection to their past while celebrating customs that have been passed down through generations.