In Israel, New Year's Day is not traditionally celebrated as per the Gregorian calendar because Israel follows the Jewish calendar for religious purposes. The Jewish New Year, known as Rosh Hashanah, is usually celebrated in the fall, typically between September and October. However, since the late 20th century, some secular Israelis have begun to celebrate the Gregorian New Year, known in Hebrew as "Sylvester," on the night of December 31st into January 1st.
Despite not being a national holiday, many Israelis have adopted Western similarities in celebrating New Year's Eve, locally known as Sylvester. The night is often marked by parties and social gatherings, fireworks, and festive meals. Many restaurants, pubs, and clubs in Tel Aviv and other major cities host New Year's Eve parties with music, drinks, and countdowns to midnight. Some might toast with a glass of champagne and wish each other 'Shana Tova', a phrase typically reserved for Rosh Hashanah, meaning 'Good Year'.
The adoption and celebration of New Year's Day in Israel is a sign of the country's diverse and multicultural society that draws influences from many cultures. While the holiday is not universally celebrated across the country due to religious reasons, it is increasingly popular among younger and more secular groups. However, it isn't a day off for workers, unlike in many other countries around the world, because it's not an official holiday. Nevertheless, the celebration of New Year’s Day is steadily becoming an integral part of Israeli urban culture.