New Year 2023: Why is January 1 celebrated as New Year? History, meaning, traditions and all you need to know
Only a few days left until 2023. On January 1, the world will say goodbye to 2022 and welcome New Year with the hope of a brighter and more prosperous tomorrow. Many countries around the globe mark January 1 as the New Year. On New Year’s Eve (December 31), people gather with their friends and family on New Year’s Eve to celebrate the happy occasion with gifts, lavish parties, parties, etc. New Year symbolizes happiness, new energy and hope for a better future. Know more about the history, meaning, traditions and why January 1st is celebrated as New Year’s Day. (Also read | New Year 2023: Fun and relaxing ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve at home instead of going out)
New Year’s History 2023: Why is January 1 celebrated as New Year?
The first time January 1 was considered the start of the new year was in 45 BC. Before that, the Roman calendar started in March and consisted of 355 days. It was the Roman dictator Julius Caesar who reformed the Calendar after coming to power. He founded January 1 is the first day of the year, partly in honor of the name of the month: Janus, the Roman god of initiation, whose two faces allow him to see the past and look into the future.
However, much of Europe did not accept it until the mid-16th century C.E. With the advent of Christianity, January 1 As the beginning of a new year is considered pagan and December 25, which is the birth date of Jesus, is considered acceptable. It was only after Pope Gregory reformed the Julian calendar and standardized January 1 as the first day of the new year that it was gradually accepted.
In addition, it is believed that the New Year originated in ancient Babylon about 4,000 years ago, in 2,000 BC. The Babylonians celebrated an 11-day New Year’s celebration called Akitu, which consisted of a different ritual each day, on the first new moon after the spring equinox (usually around the end of March).
New Year’s Meaning And Tradition 2023
New Year celebrations in many countries begin on December 31, known as New Year’s Eve, and last until dawn on January 1. Revelers who eat meals and snacks are considered to bring good luck to them. Watching fireworks and singing are traditions practiced around the world. Starting a new year is a great time to make positive changes, which is why many people write down their goals for the coming year.
