New Year’s Day

New Year’s Day falls on January 1 and marks the beginning of a new year—a time to start fresh and create your happiest story! It’s the perfect moment to break bad habits, rethink your behavior, leave behind a job that doesn’t inspire you, or finally plan that big trip. What are your plans for the year ahead?

History

Historians cannot say with certainty who first began celebrating New Year’s Day. There are many theories: Babylon, Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia—but most lean toward the ancient Celts. Of course, they didn’t have Santa Claus or Rudolph the reindeer; instead, people celebrated in honor of good and evil spirits. For them, New Year’s Day was a pagan festival held around the winter solstice.

In Egypt, the celebration was in September, coinciding with the annual flooding of the Nile—a signal for the start of the agricultural season. Agriculture was vitally important, so people exchanged gifts and enjoyed festivities. Roman statesman Julius Caesar introduced the Julian calendar in 46 BC, officially setting January 1 as the beginning of the year.

Interesting Facts

Noteworthy:

• The fireworks tradition originated in China, where firecrackers and bonfires were used to scare away evil spirits;
• People began decorating Christmas trees in the 17th century;
• In Israel, there are two celebrations: one on January 1, and another in September;
• The tallest artificial Christmas tree is in Rio de Janeiro, standing 76 meters high;
• Since the 19th century, snowmen have been sculpted with a carrot nose and a bucket on their heads;
• In the Southern Hemisphere, eucalyptus trees are decorated instead of pine trees;
• The first New Year’s card was printed in London in 1843.

How to Take Part

Start New Year’s Day on a positive note: do whatever brings you joy. If you have the energy, host a party or gather with loved ones. Clean out your closet and donate old clothes, or make plans to refresh your wardrobe. Take small steps to achieve your goals and make your dreams a reality.

When is New Year’s Day in 2026?

New Year’s Day is observed on January 1 each year.

Observations