New Year's Day Celebration: History, Resolutions, Customs and New Year Greetings

All countries across the globe use the Gregorian calendar and some communities incorporate their traditional and cultural calendars into this universal calendar and celebrate special occasions accordingly.

 As a result most people the world over celebrate New Year on January 01 which is considered a holiday in most countries. On New Year's Eve people bid the old year good-bye and usher in the beginning of the year at midnight.

History- This is the oldest celebrated day on the calendar. The Mesopotamians are said to have celebrated New Year at the vernal equinox which fell in mid-March starting in 2000 BC. In 153 BC on the Roman calendar, the Romans celebrated their first New Year on March 1. The calendar changed over the years depending on the world power. In 1582, Pope Gregory XIII established the Gregorian calendar and set January 01 as the New Year. This calendar is still in use to date.

New Year's Eve - This is celebrated on December 31 when many people the world over have or attend parties to welcome the New Year. Cities, clubs, churches, individuals organize and host parties on December 31 when a count down to midnight begins at 10 seconds to the hour. At midnight people shout, scream, whistle, hoot and holler as they wish each other Happy Holidays with hugs and hand shakes. Those who have cakes on hand, cut and serve them to the guests at this time as fireworks are lit and enjoyed.

New Year's Resolutions - This is very popular world over as people make lists of things they will do differently in the New Year as they give up bad habits and take on new ones. Common resolutions include giving up smoking, junk food, losing weight and keeping time. Unfortunately, these resolutions only last a week yet the tradition is kept by many every year.

Outings - In many countries some people have time off from Christmas day until January 02. Those who are able to afford it take the family on a trip to tourist destinations. Some can only go to the local park for a picnic or go rafting, hiking, skiing etc. The young at heart go to the cinema, malls and eateries with their friends and loved ones. The people who prefer a sober atmosphere organize parties in their homes. Some countries have sporting games, street parties, parades on New Year's Day which many people go to watch live or on their TV's if they are home bound.

Exchanging New Year Greetings and Wishes - Many people clean their houses and wear new clothes on this occasion. Some people adhere to the 'first footing' tradition where the occupants of the house do not leave until someone comes to visit with them. The visitor is usually given gifts as they exchange greetings and well wishes for the year. With this done the family is free to leave the house to visit with friends and loved ones wishing them well for the year and exchange gifts. Popular gifts are cakes, fruits, flowers, chocolates and decorative New Year cards.

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