Happy New Year!
New Year's Day, the most significant holiday in January, is simply the first day of the calendar year. However, many people view it not only as a new year but also as a symbolic new beginning for which they make resolutions about things they wish to change in their lives. Most resolutions don't last more than a week before people fall back into the same old routine but the tradition continues none the less.
Contents at a Glance
New Year celebrations begin New Year's Eve (Dec. 31, Evening), by which time resolutions have already been made. Many celebration parties last all night. Here in the USA, we mark the New Year at midnight with a ball drop tradition, a kiss for one's significant other, and the singing of Auld Lang Syne. Ball Drop - New York
Although the USA spans several time zones, we all look to the east coast in Times Square, New York, where the New Year is marked with a traditional ball drop at midnight Eastern Standard Time. The history behind this tradition is quite interesting, and I have provided a link to where you can read that history.
- History of the Ball Drop
- Just click on the link above to read the history of the ball drop tradition.
Auld Lang Syne
As I mentioned, it is a tradition in the USA to sing Auld Lang Syne at midnight. I, however, could never understand the words being sung and therefore could not sing along. I was also curious why it was a traditional song in the first place. I suspected that other Americans felt the same way so I went looking for the answers to both questions and have included a link to the best answer I could find.
- Auld Lang Syne
- Just click on the link above to read about Auld Lang Syne.
History of the Calendar
To conclude the New Year discussion I wanted to include a brief history of our calendar. I found much more than a brief history - the webpage I found is stuffed full of info about how our current calendar evolved into what it is today. For instance, did you know that the New Year was NOT originally January!!! This is definitely worth reading.
- History of the Calendar
- Just click on the link above to read the history of the calendar.
Other Holidays in January
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Another USA holiday worth mention is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. It is observed on the third Monday in January, close to his birthday, and commemorates the civil rights leader who changed our country so immensely for the better. The webpage I have provided a link to contains other links to where you can view the history of the holiday, a biography of Martin Luther King Jr. and much more.
- Martin Luther King Jr.
- Just click on the link above to read about Martin Luther King Jr. and his holiday.
Congratulations to Barack Obama, the United States' first non-white president. Without the efforts of Martin Luther King Jr. he would never have won that victory.
by nrpbiz
Hello! I'm just an ordinary person who is willing to share my opinions, ideas, and knowledge. If you wish to see what I have to say, please view my le... (more)
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