In Germany, December 31 is traditionally called Silvester.
The name comes from Saint Sylvester I, a fourth-century bishop of Rome whose feast day is observed on December 31 in the Western Christian calendar. German-speaking communities use Silvester for the evening and often for the broader New Year’s Eve celebration. The following day, January 1, is Neujahr, meaning New Year.
German Silvester customs include countdowns, fireworks, festive meals, and the exchange of good wishes. A well-known older custom is viewing the British comedy sketch Dinner for One, which has become a New Year’s Eve television tradition in Germany despite being far less prominent in the United Kingdom.
Silvester should not be confused with a uniquely German word for the entire New Year season. It is also used in Austria and Switzerland, and the name appears in other European languages and regions. The spelling with an “i” is the standard German form, while “Sylvester” is a common spelling of the saint’s name in English.