New Year's Day, which is celebrated on the 1st of January every year, is a public holiday in Mauritania, a country located in Northwest Africa. This day marks the beginning of the new year according to the Gregorian calendar used in Mauritania and most parts of the world. The celebrations begin at midnight with fireworks, parties, and a variety of public and private events.
On New Year's Day, Mauritanians spend time with their families and friends. It is often a day of relaxation following the late-night celebrations of New Year's Eve. Family meals are a common way of connecting and spending time together. Exchanging gifts, especially among the younger members of the family, is also a common tradition during the New Year celebrations in Mauritania.
In addition to family gatherings and feasts, many people in Mauritania also use this holiday as an opportunity to visit local attractions, parks, beaches, and historical areas. Some choose the New Year's Day as a time of reflection, making resolutions and setting goals for the upcoming year. Although traditions may vary across the diverse ethnic groups residing in the country, the anticipation of a fresh start and the shared joy of the New Year unite Mauritanians on this day.