Bell ringing once was a practical form of communication to gather herds of cattle, and signal to farm hands that it's time to eat. Bells also hold much symbolism for various cultures as you'll see this New Year's in California when three bells will be rung in honor of Spanish, Japanese and Korean traditions and cultures. Here's to ringing in the New Year!

1. SAN FRANCISCO: Asian Art Museum San Francisco  Japanese Bell Ringing Ceremony on December 31. A 2100-lb., sixteenth-century Japanese bronze bell from a temple in Japan is struck 108 times with a log for 108 mortal desires (bonno) of  passions and delusions humans need to be rid of from the previous year so they can begin the New year right.   Bell-ringing opens to general admission at 11 p.m. First come, first served. Pick up tickets online to ring the bell. asianart.org

2. SAN PEDRO: Korean Friendship Bell Ceremony Ringing's Occur 5 Times Each Year including New Year's Eve in Angels Gate Park. The bell was recently restored to its former glory. Call Department of Recreation and Parks, Harbor Region, Point Fermin Maintenance District: (310) 548-7756.