| New Year's Day | |
|---|---|
| Observed by | United States and many other countries |
| Type | Federal holiday |
| Date | January 1 |
| Scheduling | Same day each year |
| Frequency | Annual |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Celebrates | Beginning of the Gregorian calendar year |
New Year's Day is a federal holiday in the United States celebrated on January 1. It marks the start of the Gregorian calendar year and is associated with celebration, reflection, and new beginnings.
History
- The Gregorian calendar, introduced by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582, designated January 1 as New Year’s Day
- The United States, following European tradition, adopted this date as the official start of the new year
- New Year’s Day has been a recognized federal holiday in the U.S. since 1870
Celebrations
While the most well-known celebrations occur the night before (New Year’s Eve), January 1 is observed with:
- Parades, including the famous Rose Parade in Pasadena, California
- Televised concerts and events
- Relaxation or quiet reflection
- The start of New Year’s resolutions for self-improvement
New Year’s Eve Connection
Many Americans celebrate the night of December 31 with:
- Parties and gatherings
- Fireworks and countdowns
- Watching the Times Square Ball Drop in New York City
Traditions and Customs
- Making New Year’s resolutions
- Sharing meals with symbolic foods:
- Black-eyed peas (good luck) - Greens (prosperity)
- Watching college bowl games
- Spending time with family or resting
Fun Facts
- Over 1 billion people watch the Times Square Ball Drop globally
- The first ball drop in NYC occurred in 1907
- January 1 is celebrated as New Year’s Day in many countries around the world