New Year's Day is a widely observed public holiday in North Macedonia, as it is around the world. The day is officially observed on January 1st each year, marking the start of a new calendar year. The day before New Year's Day, known as New Year's Eve, is also widely celebrated with fireworks, parties, and social gatherings that often extend into the early hours of the New Year's Day.
In North Macedonia, New Year's Day often begins with families having a communal breakfast, largely comprising rich, festive foods that were prepared and baked at home. It is common for family members to exchange gifts on New Year's Day in North Macedonia. It is also considered a day for relaxation, visiting friends, and for some, attending church services. Many people take advantage of the public holiday to rest and enjoy recreational activities.
The country welcomes the New Year with various public and private events, music and dance performances. The main squares of major cities in North Macedonia such as Skopje, Bitola, and Ohrid become the hub of such celebrations. A great deal of emphasis is put on music and entertainment, with live performances from local and international artists. As is traditional in many other countries, at the stroke of midnight, fireworks light the sky as the people of North Macedonia join together in welcoming the New Year.