| New Year's Day | |
|---|---|
| File:Times Square New Years Eve Ball Drop.jpg The New Year's Eve Ball in Times Square, New York City |
|
| 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