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New Year's Eve & New Year's Day Traditions
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New Year's Day is a time to reflect upon the past and rejoice in
the beginning of a whole new year. It's a perfect holiday to
celebrate right after Christmas, and to look forward to making
new memories.
Not every country celebrates the new year on the same day
because they have different calendars. Traditionally, America
celebrates ringing in the new year on December 31st (New Year's
Eve) and January 1st (New Year's Day.)
New Year's Eve Parties
Whether you plan a huge holiday party, or a quiet evening at
home, you'll probably follow some family holiday customs.
Parties are probably the # 1 way people bring in the happy new
year, with party planning starting long before Christmas.
Traditionally, New York's Time Square has a huge annual New
Year's celebration. The first celebration there took place in
1904 and the notorious "dropping of the ball" became a tradition
shortly after that, in 1909.
The famous ball begins dropping at 11:59 pm and has completed
the descent at 12:00 midnight, the new year. Bells ring,
confetti and streamers fly, as everyone happily rings in the new
year. You can distinctly hear "Auld Lang Syne" over the cheering
and applause.
This event is always televised, so if you're a little more laid
back, watching it on TV might be just the thing for you. Or, do
what many other people do, watch movies or football with a bowl
of popcorn and have a toast at midnight. Don't forget to kiss
that special person in your life. If you plan on going to a
movie or play, get your tickets well in advance and get there
early.
New Year's Day Traditions
Ah, the feeling of waking up on New Year's Day with a whole new
future ahead of you. Hopes and dreams anew, this is a special
time to spend with family and friends.
New Year's Resolution
It's wise to leave old ghosts in the past and make a
New Year's
resolution to improve upon the things that will make your life
better. Of course, the most popular resolutions are to lose
weight or quit smoking. Whether you're successful at this or not
depends on your own determination.
Tournament of the Roses Parade
I remember watching the parades in the morning when I was a
child. This was the most exciting event for me, to watch all of
the floats and cartoon characters (even Santa) that are larger
than life. The parade takes place in Pasadena, CA and is
sponsored by the Rose Bowl.
Football
Do you have any sports enthusiasts in your family? If so, then
you already know that football games are a crucial part of the
holidays. Watching the college bowl games on TV seem to be a
priority on New Year's Day.
Holiday Dinner
Festive New Year's celebrations always include a hearty meal
with snacks in between. This is a last chance to try out new
holiday recipes and, if possible, prepare some of the food the
day before so you can spend more time with your family.
Toast the New Year
Don't forget a toast to the new year with wine, apple cider,
grape juice, or the beverage of your choice. Wish health and
happiness to those around you and look forward to a fresh start.
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