Ancient Celebrations of the New Year
The first documented celebrations to mark the arrival of a new year go back approximately 4,000 years to ancient Babylon. However, it was not then known as New Year’s as the new moon following vernal equinox, in late March, marked for the first time the inception of the new year according to them. They celebrated the event with a grand religious festival known as Akitu (originating from the Sumerian term for barley, which was harvested in spring) that featured a unique ritual for each of its 11 days.
Along with the new year, Atiku commemorated the legendary triumph of the Babylonian sky deity Marduk against the malevolent sea goddess Tiamat, which also served a significant political function: This period marked the crowning of a new monarch or the symbolic renewal of the existing ruler’s divine authority.
To realign the Roman calendar with the sun, Julius Caesar needed to incorporate 90 additional days into the year 46 B.C. when he launched his new Julian calendar.
Across ancient times, societies globally created more advanced calendars, often linking the year’s first day to a farming or celestial occurrence. In Egypt, for example, New Year started with the Nile’s annual flooding that usually aligned itself with the rising of Sirius; new moon day, by way of contrast, started either as second moon which happened after the winter solstice.
New Year’s Traditions and Celebrations Around the World
In numerous nations, New Year’s festivities start on the night of December 31—New Year’s Eve—and carry on until the early morning of January 1. Celebrants frequently indulge in foods and treats believed to bring luck for the year ahead. In Spain and various other Spanish-speaking nations, individuals quickly eat a dozen grapes—representing their aspirations for the upcoming months—just before midnight.
In various regions globally, customary New Year’s foods include legumes, believed to symbolize coins and signify upcoming financial prosperity; for instance, lentils in Italy and black-eyed peas in the southern United States.
Since pigs symbolize advancement and wealth in certain cultures, pork is featured on the New Year’s Eve dinner table in Cuba, Austria, Hungary, Portugal, and various other nations. Ring-shaped cakes and pastries, symbolizing the year’s completion, complete the celebration in the Netherlands, Mexico, Greece, and other locations. In Sweden and Norway, rice pudding containing a concealed almond is served on New Year’s Eve; it is believed that the person who discovers the nut will have a year filled with good luck.
Other traditions that are prevalent around the globe involve observing fireworks and singing songs to greet the new year, such as the widely favored “Auld Lang Syne” in various English-speaking nations. The tradition of setting new year resolutions is believed to have originated with the ancient Babylonians, who made commitments to gain the gods’ approval and begin the year positively. (They would allegedly promise to settle their debts and return the borrowed agricultural tools.)
In the U.S the most famous New Year’s custom is the descent of a massive ball in Times Square, New York City, at midnight. Countless individuals globally view the event, which has occurred nearly every year since 1907. Through the years, the ball has expanded from a 700-pound iron-and-wood sphere to a vividly designed orb measuring 12 feet across and weighing approximately 12,000 pounds. Numerous towns and cities throughout America have created their own adaptations of the Times Square tradition, hosting public drops of objects ranging from pickles (Dillsburg, Pennsylvania) to possums (Tallapoosa, Georgia) at midnight on New Year’s Eve.
How to make New Year’s celebrations fun and memorable?
Themed Decorations
Setting the Mood:
The author suggests using themed decorations, such as Happy New Year’s paper plates and party hats, to create a festive atmosphere. These items serve as fun photo props and help everyone get into the celebratory spirit. They can be easily purchased at stores like Walmart or online.
Food as a Central Element
Finger Foods and Appetizers:
Food plays a crucial role in gatherings. The author recommends serving finger foods and appetizers that guests can enjoy while engaging in other activities. A creative touch mentioned is to sprinkle Hershey Kisses around the food for added decoration and sweetness.
Inclusivity in Celebrations
Family Involvement
The post emphasizes including everyone in the celebration, regardless of age. The author shares a cherished memory of celebrating with young children by having a picnic in front of the TV, allowing them to participate in the festivities at an earlier hour.
Importance of Photography
Capturing Memories
Taking photos during the celebration is highlighted as essential for preserving memories. The author encourages ensuring that everyone gets their picture taken, which can later be shared with attendees to make them feel special.
Documenting Experiences
Sharing Memories
Beyond taking photos, the author advises documenting memories through scrapbooking, photobooks, or social media posts. This practice allows individuals to reflect on their experiences and celebrate them again later.
Printables for Celebration
Digital Resources
The article concludes with an offer of printables and digital scrapbooking supplies available for download. These resources can be used to enhance party decor and help commemorate New Year’s memories effectively.
How to Start New Year Resolutions?
Set Clear Goals: Establish concrete, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. Instead of saying “I want to get fit,” write down “I will exercise three times a week for 30 minutes.”
Begin Small: Start with little changes that can be easily built upon. For example, if you want to read more, start with one chapter a week.
Create a Plan: This is the plan that details how you are going to achieve your goals. It includes steps, resources, and potential challenges.
Use Triggers: Associate your new habit with an existing routine or trigger. For example, if you want to drink more water, do it right after brushing your teeth.
How to Maintain New Year Resolutions?
Track Progress: Regularly monitor your progress towards your goals. Use journals or apps to keep a record of your efforts and achievements.
Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adjust your goals as needed. Life can be unpredictable; adapting your plans can help maintain motivation.
Request Help: Share your goals with the friends or family members whom you trust to provide guidance and remind you of achieving them.
Celebrate Little Wins: Reward yourself with little prizes for small achievements to maintain excitement throughout your course.
Assess and Refine: Periodically note what works and what doesn’t. Make adjustments on your strategy to stay consistent with your goals.
Happy New Year 2025: 20 best wishes and quotes
Wishes for friends and family
“Cheers to 2025! May this year bring you endless happiness, success, and cherished moments with loved ones. Happy New Year!”
“Wishing you a sparkling New Year filled with laughter, joy, and unforgettable memories. Here’s to an amazing 2025!”
“Leave behind the worries of 2024 and embrace the fresh opportunities of 2025. Happy New Year!”
“New beginnings, new adventures, and new memories await. Happy New Year 2025!”
“Wishing you a year full of happiness, good health, and endless blessings. Happy New Year 2025!”
“May the year ahead bring you happiness, peace, and fulfillment. Happy New Year 2025!”
Wishes for WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram
“New Year, new dreams, new opportunities. Have a fantastic 2025!”
“Wishing you a year full of blessings and happiness. Happy New Year!”
“Let’s make 2025 amazing! Happy New Year!”
“Wishing you a year full of happiness and good health. Happy New Year!”
“Happy New Year! May 2025 bring you peace and success.”
“Here’s to a year full of blessings and love. Happy 2025!”
“May this year be the best one yet! Happy New Year 2025!”
This year’s book, at midnight turns to footnote in the next.”
“New year is the glittering light to brighten the dream-lined pathway of future.”
“No matter how hard the past, you can always begin again.”
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