The celebration of New Year has been around since ancient times, with different cultures having their own customs and traditions. It is a time to say goodbye to the past year and welcome the upcoming one with hope and excitement. Here, we will explore the history of New Year's celebrations and some fun facts about this popular holiday.

History Of New Year's Celebrations

The earliest recorded New Year celebrations date back to ancient Babylon around 4,000 years ago. The celebration lasted for eleven days and began with the first new moon after the spring equinox. The Babylonians would make promises to their gods in hopes of having a good harvest in the coming year.

In ancient Rome, New Year's was celebrated on March 1st as it marked the beginning of the calendar year. However, in 153 BC, the Roman Senate declared January 1st the official start of the year to honor Janus, the god of beginnings and transitions.

The tradition of New Year's resolutions can also be traced back to ancient Rome where people would make promises to their gods for the upcoming year. These resolutions were mainly focused on self-improvement, such as being kinder or more generous.

During medieval times, the Catholic Church designated January 1st as the Feast of the Circumcision, where they celebrated the naming and circumcision of Jesus Christ. However, with the adoption of the Gregorian calendar in 1582 by many countries, January 1st became the official New Year's Day.

Fun Facts About New Years

• The Times Square ball drop in New York City began in 1907 and has been a tradition ever since, except for two years during World War II. Nowadays, around one million people gather to watch the famous event live.

• In Spain, it is customary to eat 12 grapes at midnight, one for each month of the year, to bring good luck for each month.

• In Japan, New Year's is celebrated in a traditional way called "oshogatsu," where families gather to eat special dishes and visit temples or shrines for good luck.

• The first recorded New Year's resolution was made by the ancient Babylonians over four thousand years ago.

• In Colombia, people carry empty suitcases around the block at midnight to attract good luck for traveling in the upcoming year.

• The New Year's Eve tradition of kissing someone at midnight is believed to have originated in ancient Rome where it was seen as a symbol of purification and fertility.

As we enter a new year, remember to reflect on our accomplishments and set goals for the new year. 

Happy New Year!