Rome, Italy
The Fest: After the traditional meal of Cenone di San Silvestro (honoring one of the first popes), Romans take to the Piazza del Popolo for drinking, dancing, and, of course, living! What Makes It Special: The curious modern ritual of diving off the Cavour Bridge into the frigid Tiber River. Yeah, that'll bring good tidings. The Crowd: The old fogies? They go home. The night is for the young and beautiful. The Food: After the antipasto and fish, the cotechino con lenticchi is served right after midnight. The lentils represent money—the more revelers eat, the more riches 2008 is sure to bring. The Libation: Prosecco, an Italian sparkling wine. Ideal For: Anyone with a hearty appetite and a big thirst for convivial celebration. The Next Day: Adults bring their kids to the Piazza del Popolo to see clowns, acrobats and fire-eaters—and maybe a quick visit to the church of Santa Maria del Popolo for a post-New Year's eve confession.