Author: admin

Why January 1 Became the World’s New Beginning: The Story of New Year and the Gregorian Calendar

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Every year, as fireworks bloom across night skies and church bells ring out at midnight, billions of people mark the arrival of a new year on January 1. The moment feels timeless—almost natural. Yet the choice of this date is neither universal nor ancient. It is the product of political reforms, astronomical corrections, and centuries of cultural negotiation. Understanding how January 1 became New Year’s Day reveals not only the evolution of the Gregorian calendar but also humanity’s enduring desire to anchor time, meaning, and hope. Ancient Beginnings: Long Before…

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Vienna to Introduce Significantly Higher Parking Fees Starting in 2026

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Vienna will raise its parking fees substantially beginning 1 January 2026, marking one of the most notable adjustments to the city’s parking system in recent years. According to information released on Tuesday by the Austrian automobile association ÖAMTC, previously issued parking vouchers with tariffs valid until 31 December 2025 may still be used for a six‑month grace period, ending 30 June 2026. However, the ÖAMTC has once again criticised the city for refusing to allow any exchange or refund of “old” parking vouchers after the grace period — even if…

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Filipino Communities Across Austria Celebrate Simbang Gabi With a Symphony of Choirs

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Filipino faith communities across Austria filled their churches with music, devotion, and cultural pride as they celebrated this year’s Simbang Gabi, the beloved nine‑day novena leading to Christmas. From Vienna to Salzburg, the celebrations were marked by an extraordinary display of musical talent, with numerous choirs taking turns leading the liturgy in song. In Vienna, the Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy once again showcased the depth of its musical ministry. The Filiino Catholic Chaplaincy Choir Vienna, Our Lady of Manaoag Choir, Couples for Christ Choir, Chancel Choir, and the Our Lady of…

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Philippine Embassy in Vienna Commemorates 129th Anniversary of Dr. José Rizal’s Martyrdom

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Vienna, 30 December 2025 – Today marks the 129th Anniversary of the Martyrdom of Dr. José Rizal, the Philippine national hero whose life, writings, and sacrifice ignited the Filipino struggle for freedom. Across the globe, Filipinos gather to honor his legacy—and the Philippine Embassy in Vienna joins the nation in this solemn and meaningful commemoration. In a statement, the Embassy highlighted Rizal’s enduring influence on Philippine identity, democratic ideals, and the global Filipino community. “Rizal’s courage and intellect continue to inspire generations of Filipinos, including those who call Austria their…

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New Year’s Eve customs from around the world

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For most people, the last day of the year is synonymous with fireworks, firecrackers, and popping champagne bottles—the louder, the better. In addition to driving away evil forces, New Year’s Eve is primarily about starting the coming twelve months with as much good fortune as possible, letting go of the old and making room for the positive. The following customs are practiced by cultures around the globe… Czech prophecy with an apple What events will the coming year bring? People in Czechia answer this question with the help of an…

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MAISUG Austria Holds Post-Christmas Celebration and Induction of Officers in Vienna

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Vienna, Austria – December 28, 2025 — MAISUG Austria successfully held its post-Christmas celebration and induction of officers on December 28, 2025, at the Pfarrsaal of the Salvatorianer Church in Vienna’s 10th District. The event brought together officers, members, supporters, and friends of the organization in a spirit of unity, reflection, and renewed commitment. The gathering was led by MAISUG Austria President Ray Arreza, who welcomed attendees and expressed his gratitude for the continued support and active participation of the organization’s officers and members. In his message, Arreza thanked everyone…

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New Year Survey for 2026: Austrians Show Less Confidence — and Fewer Resolutions

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Austrians are entering 2026 with noticeably subdued optimism. According to the 54th annual New Year survey conducted by IMAS and published on Sunday, confidence levels remain almost unchanged from the previous year. In November, 27 percent of respondents looked toward the new year with concern, 34 percent described themselves as skeptical, and roughly one third expressed a positive outlook. Lingering Crises Weigh on Public Mood The overall sentiment remains clouded by ongoing global and domestic challenges. Persistent inflation, rising prices, the war in Ukraine, and the conflict in the Middle…

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This is how much we spend on New Year’s Eve

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Raclette instead of quiet, resolutions instead of abstinence. In Vienna, the turn of the year is celebrated with enjoyment, tradition, and conviviality. According to a recent survey by KMU Forschung Austria on behalf of the Vienna Chamber of Commerce, 66 percent of Viennese take part in the celebrations. Each of them spends an average of 80 euros on snacks, drinks, decorations, or fireworks. Full shopping bags and a noticeable boost in trade Around the turn of the year, many Viennese go shopping once again. Food, lucky charms, and sparkling wine…

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How Austrians View the Coming Year

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As Austria prepares to ring in the New Year, the usual festive cheer is increasingly accompanied by skepticism and concern about what lies ahead. Two surveys conducted around the turn of the year reveal a clear trend: while most people still prefer celebrating New Year’s Eve with family and friends, younger Austrians are noticeably more optimistic about 2026 than older generations. A Moment of Reflection Amid Festivities When New Year’s Eve arrives, fireworks light up the sky and champagne corks pop across the country. Yet for many, the transition into…

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