Believe it or not, New Year's Day is almost here.  As adults we remember our parents and grandparents traditions on how they celebrated this annual holiday.  We forget as parents, however, to explain how New Year's Day began as well as what it means to our families.

How Did it Begin?
New Year's Day was first celebrated in 2000 B.C. by the Babylonians.  It was celebrated for eleven days after the First New Moon that came after the Vernal Equinox or first day of spring.  The Romans celebrated this holiday as early as 153 B.C. during late March.  Later on the Roman Senate identified January 1st as the official holiday of New Year's Day.

Celebrating New Year's Day
 Families around the world celebrate this holiday in many different ways depending on their beliefs and traditions.  In the United States, however, many people celebrate New Year's Day in the following ways:

  • Make resolutions for the new year
  • Watch the Tournament of Roses Parade
  • Watch football games
  • Get together with family and friends
  • Sing "Auld Lang Syne" at 12 A.M. on New Year's Day
  • Eat black-eyed peas and lentils for good luck
  • Wear something new
  • Kissing your spouse or loved one at midnight
  • Having money in your pocket

No matter how your family celebrates New Year's Day it is important to share your families' traditions with your children.  They need to know what New Year's Day is, how it began, and how your family chooses to celebrate it.  If the reason for why you celebrate this holiday is due to how your parents, grandparents, or ancestors celebrated it, make sure to share this with your children as well.  They will not only gain more knowledge about this holiday, but more importantly more information about their heritage and beliefs.

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