While some New Year's Eve celebrations around the world are well known -- like the iconic ball dropping in Times Square in New York, or fireworks displays around Big Ben and the London Eye in England -- many Latin American countries ring in the new year with equally astonishing, though often less publicized, displays.

Take a look at how a few Latin countries celebrate the new year.

Mexico

State governments across Mexico organize public celebrations, like those in the Plaza de la Constitucion and at the Monument of the Revolution in Mexico City, or in the Parque Fundidora in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon.

There is a huge street festival that is held around the Zócalo that includes a large piñata, firecrackers and sparklers. The Mexican people use this as an opportunity to spend time with their families and indulge in their culture while on the city streets.

Brazil

Over 2 million people gather in Rio de Janeiro's famous Copacabana beach to watch colorful fireworks hit the sky for 15 minutes. Plenty of Brazilians welcome the new year completely wet by jumping into the water as fireworks explode overhead.

After the fireworks show, the streets, bars and restaurants of the city are filled with parties, dancing and music.

Spain

While many Spaniards celebrate at home, taking part in the eating of the 12 grapes, thousands go out to the clock tower in Puerta del Sol plaza in Madrid for the annual count down and fireworks as the clock hits midnight.

The plaza is usually still decorated with Christmas decorations that also help light up the plaza.

Dominican Republic

The beach is also a focal point during New Year's Eve celebrations in the Dominican Republic. Many flock to Punta Cana, one of the country's most popular destinations, to watch the fireworks display.

Chile

Chile holds a variety of celebrations to welcome the new year. Some people head over to see the fireworks in the Torre Entel in Santiago or along the coast of Viña, Reñaca and Valparaíso.

Tourists come from different parts of the world early in the day to secure a picnic spot ahead of the fireworks displays. There are also dance festivals held throughout the country.

Puerto Rico

In Puerto Rico, fireworks are also used to celebrate. But the display is unique in that it isn't only visible in one area or one specific city. When the clock strikes 12, fireworks can be seen hitting the sky all over the small island, lighting up various towns.