New Year’s Eve is one of the most widely celebrated holidays around the world, marked by vibrant fireworks, lively parties, and joyful gatherings with loved ones.
However, while most continue to party, dance, and drink during the holiday, many people are unaware of the rich history and traditions behind this festive day.
For instance, many don’t know that in other countries in the world, New Year’s Eve is often referred to as Old Year’s Day.
There’s that and so much more that not only Bethel Park but the whole world forgets about New Year’s Eve.
Many don’t know that the first known record of New Year’s celebrations originated during 2000 B.C. in Mesopotamia. This occurred at the time of the vernal equinox, which is toward the end of March.
Babylonians would have a religious festival named Akitu taken from the Sumerian term for barley, where they would perform various rituals, which would last for 11 days.
The Babylonians, while innovative for their time, would be shocked to see the spectacle the holiday has become today.
Fast forward to the present day, and New Year’s Eve has become a global spectacle.
In the United States, millions of people gather in Times Square to watch the iconic ball drop, while others celebrate in the comfort of their own homes with traditional foods like pork, cornbread, fish, noodles, and black-eyed peas.
Also in recent years, television networks have played a significant role in shaping the way people celebrate New Year’s Eve.
In 2024, 22.2 million people tuned in to watch Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve hosted by Ryan Seacrest, which taking into consideration the rise of streaming services demonstrates the holiday’s enduring popularity.
With the holiday festivities also come resolutions. Beginning in the later years of the 18th century, many around hope to improve themselves heading into the upcoming year.
Listed below are the most commonly said resolutions heading into 2025:
- To save more money – 21%
- To eat healthier – 19%
- To exercise more – 17%
- To lose weight – 15%
- To spend more time with friends and family – 14%
- To quit smoking – 9%
Despite its evolution over time, New Year’s Eve remains a special day for people around the world. It’s a time for reflection, renewal, and celebration, as people come together to mark the start of a new year.
Whether people are watching fireworks or enjoying a quiet evening at home, New Year’s Eve is a time to cherish loved ones, make memories, and look forward to the possibilities that the future holds.
In conclusion, New Year’s Eve is more than just a holiday, it’s a celebration of culture, tradition, and community.
Its rich history and global significance make it a truly unique and special day that deserves to be appreciated and celebrated by people of all ages and backgrounds.