New Year's Day 2025
Date: January 1, 2025 (Wednesday)
Country: Paraguay Public Holidays
Description
New Year s Day in Paraguay is the first day of the year. It always takes place on January 1. It is a public holiday that marks the official start of the calendar year for everyone in the country.
The day means a fresh beginning. People think about the year ahead and leave behind the past. It is a time for hope and setting goals for personal and family life in the coming months.
As a national holiday many offices, banks, and schools are closed. Government and civil services mark the day on official calendars. This makes the date important for planning work, school schedules, and public events later in the year.
The holiday is significant to Paraguay because it brings people together under a shared sense of time. It connects daily life to the wider rhythm of the nation and its civic life, helping communities regroup and look forward.
New Year s Day also anchors other legal and administrative dates. It is a clear starting point for contracts, fiscal years, and public programs that follow the national calendar.
Traditions
Families gather for a big late dinner with grilled meat called asado, chipa cheese bread, and sopa paraguaya corn cake. People share sweets and soft drinks and later dance to polka and guarania music in homes and parties.
At midnight fireworks light the sky and everyone hugs and kisses. Many burn a paper doll called el Año Viejo to leave bad memories behind. Some people jump waves or open windows and doors to welcome change and fresh air.
People also use small rituals for luck. They wear colored underwear for wishes, light candles, and scatter coins or rice for prosperity. Neighbors often visit each other to celebrate together into the early morning.
Travel Tips
Banks, government offices and many shops close or have shorter hours. Public transport may run less often early morning but get crowded at night. Check flight and bus schedules in advance and carry some cash because ATMs can run low.
Public squares and city centers get busy with large crowds and events. Keep valuables safe, stay in well lit areas, and use official taxis or ride apps. Book restaurants or tours ahead. Visit parks, quiet neighborhoods, or local shops that remain open to enjoy the day safely and respectfully.