Public holiday on January 1 marking the start of the new calendar year and celebrated across cultures worldwide.
Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the
Holiday Calendar Team
Julius Caesar formally established January 1 as the first day of the year in 45 BC through his Julian calendar reform, retaining the pre-existing Roman practice of honoring Janus and aligning the civil year with consular terms.
Ring in the New Year with a bang and celebrate New Year's Day on Jan. 1! This holiday has been around since ancient times, when Babylonians would mark the start of a new year with grand festivities. It is also believed that many early civilizations celebrated this special day to honor gods and goddesses who were thought to bring good luck for the upcoming year. On this day we reflect on what we achieved over the past 12 months, create resolutions for ourselves, and look ahead to all that lies ahead.
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New Year’s Day ran on January 1. Here’s who celebrated with offers this year.
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WHY THIS DAY MATTERS
With each new year comes newfound hope and optimism that this will be our best yet. There may be trials ahead but they won't define us - instead, let us focus on setting achievable goals and striving towards them until we reach our highest accomplishments. Let's take this fresh start as an opportunity make positive changes big or small in our lives!
At the start of each new year, it's like a giant reset button has been pressed. This is your chance to make resolutions and set goals for what you want to accomplish in the coming year. It's also an opportunity to reflect on the successes and challenges of the past twelve months, so that you can plan how to maximize your potential moving forward!
Whether it's partying with friends or attending a quiet gathering at home, there are tons of ways to celebrate New Year’s Day. You could go out with your loved ones for dinner and drinks, watch fireworks at midnight, or simply gather around the television to catch all the festivities from Times Square! No matter what you choose, it’s sure to be a memorable night.
Ring in the New Year with family and friends - enjoy festive feasts, decorations, and a sparkling countdown to an amazing year!
A heritage observance on March 25 marking the Feast of the Annunciation, the historical English legal new year, spring renewal, and the start of the agricultural season.
Say goodbye to New Year's resolutions and hello to a fresh start on No Longer New Year's Day - the perfect day for second chances and new beginnings!
Ring in the Orthodox New Year with traditional foods, festive celebrations, and new beginnings!
