The Danish name for New Year's Eve, associated with broken plates and a midnight jump, is Nytårsaften.
In Denmark, some people traditionally mark the transition into the new year by standing on a chair or sofa and jumping down at midnight. The leap is a symbolic jump into the new year. Another custom involves leaving or throwing old plates at friends' and neighbors' doors; a large pile can be interpreted as evidence of many friendships.
The name combines nytår, meaning “new year,” with aften, meaning “evening.” These customs are cultural traditions rather than rules followed by every Danish household. Nytårsaften should also be distinguished from New Year's Day, called Nytårsdag, which is January 1.