Explained: Know All About Why We Celebrate New Year's On January 1

New Year's Day, which marks the beginning of the new year, is celebrated on January 1. It is a universal celebration that has been observed for thousands of years. The auspicious day, which is celebrated across the world, dates back to ancient Mesopotamia.

People from across the world get together with family, friends, and colleagues, share meals, and celebrate the day by lighting and decorating their houses. Read below to learn more about the history and significance of the New Year and more about it.

Why do we celebrate New Year on January 1?

New Year represents both an ending and a start simultaneously. It enables us to assess our actions from the past year and provides an opportunity to correct our errors. The start of a new year offers optimism to strive for the betterment of society. The observance of the New Year has existed for millennia, and it has been celebrated by various cultures around the globe. The earliest recorded festivities of the year trace back to ancient Mesopotamia, approximately 2000 BCE, when the occasion was observed during the spring equinox.

Nonetheless, Julius Caesar's alteration of the calendar in 46 BCE set January 1 as the recognised beginning of the year. The date of January 1 was chosen to pay tribute to Janus, a Roman deity linked to beginnings, endings, and transitions. The month of January is named after Janus. Lord Janus was represented as possessing two contrasting faces. One side gazed into the past, while the other side stared ahead.

Significance of New Year

A new year means new hope, a new goal, and a fresh start. Celebrations of the new year vary from culture to culture. However, New Year's resolution plays a central role in the celebrations, as people set goals to improve their lifestyle so their aim can be fulfilled.