The year ends on December 31st and on January 1st the calendar resets and the year number increases by 1. With this change we welcome a fresh start, celebrating the arrival of a new year full of possibilities.
What happens – the celebrations.
New Year’s Eve parties are common, and people celebrate in all kinds of ways! Usually, it involves dancing, eating delicious food, watching fireworks, and spending time with friends and family. It’s a time to enjoy yourself and welcome the new year together and maybe even share a kiss with a loved one at midnight. Lots of people also make special foods that are believed to bring good luck for the year ahead. Many people make resolutions, which are goals or things they want to achieve or change about themselves in the new year.
Why do we celebrate?
New Year is all about welcoming change, reflecting on the past year, and looking forward to the future. It’s a chance to think about what you’ve accomplished, what you want to improve, and to feel hopeful about what’s next.
Where does New Year’s Eve originate from?
This tradition dates back to ancient times. The first known New Year celebrations happened with the first new moon after the spring equinox, an event that marks the start of spring. Later, in pre-Christian Rome, people began celebrating in January to honour Janus, the Roman god of beginnings and transitions.
Fun facts
The New Year’s Kiss:
This tradition comes from the belief that sharing a kiss with someone you care about at midnight will strengthen your bond for the year ahead. Some people even say it brings good luck. (Time Magazine)
Fireworks and Noisemaking:
Many cultures believe that making noise helps to scare away bad spirits. This is why, in some places, you see massive firework displays and hear the crowd counting down loudly to midnight. (Smithsonian Magazine)
New Year’s Resolutions:
The tradition of making resolutions started with the ancient Babylonians, who would make promises to their gods to pay their debts or return borrowed items at the start of each year. Now, people set personal goals like exercising more or spending time with family. (History.com)
Food for Good Fortune:
In England, some people enjoy a New Year’s meal of pork or game, thought to bring good luck, as well as mince pies for prosperity. Traditionally, it’s believed that eating these foods sets a lucky tone for the year ahead. (BBC Food)
