New Year's Day

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New Years 2014 Fireworks - London Eye

Capodanno romano

Menologion of Basil 047

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Countries that do not celebrate New Year’s Day on 1st January

Ōarai

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Pisa, Piazza dei Cavalieri, Capodanno Pisano 2019

New Year's Day is the first day of the year on the modern Gregorian calendar as well as the Julian calendar. Celebrated on January 1st, this day marks the beginning of the New Year and is a public holiday in many countries, allowing individuals to celebrate the start of the year with various traditions and customs.

History

The celebration of New Year's Day dates back over 4,000 years to ancient Babylon. The Babylonians celebrated the New Year during the first new moon following the vernal equinox—a day in late March with an equal amount of sunlight and darkness, heralding the start of spring. The tradition of celebrating the New Year on January 1st began in Rome in 153 B.C., when the Roman Senate declared this day as the beginning of the New Year. However, it was not until Julius Caesar introduced the Julian calendar in 46 B.C. that January 1st became universally recognized as the start of the New Year.

Celebrations and Traditions

New Year's Day is associated with numerous customs and traditions, varying widely across different cultures. Common practices include making New Year's resolutions, where individuals resolve to change an undesired trait or behavior, to accomplish a personal goal, or otherwise improve their life. Celebrations often feature parties, concerts, and fireworks at the stroke of midnight as the New Year starts. Many cultures also have specific foods that are eaten on New Year's Day, believed to bring luck and prosperity for the coming year.

In addition to personal celebrations, many countries hold official events, including parades and public gatherings. One of the most famous of these is the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California, followed by the Rose Bowl college football game. Another notable event is the Times Square Ball Drop in New York City, a tradition that has been taking place since 1907.

Around the World

The observance of New Year's Day varies around the world. While most countries use the Gregorian calendar and celebrate on January 1st, some cultures follow lunar or lunisolar calendars, leading to different dates for the New Year. For example, the Chinese New Year is celebrated between January 21st and February 20th, depending on the lunar calendar. Similarly, the Islamic New Year shifts annually in relation to the Gregorian calendar.

Public Holiday

In many countries, New Year's Day is a public holiday, allowing people to spend time with family and friends. Schools, businesses, and government offices are generally closed, with some exceptions for essential services.

Significance

New Year's Day is more than just the start of the calendar year; it is a day for reflection, renewal, and celebration. It offers a chance for individuals to look back at the past year, make plans, and set goals for the future. It symbolizes hope and new beginnings, making it a universally significant day across different cultures and societies.