Curious about the traditions and facts surrounding New Year’s Day? The iconic ball drop in Times Square has a rich history that dates back to 1907, a year when city officials decided to prohibit fireworks. The ball that descends each year is an impressive 12 feet in diameter and weighs a staggering 11,875 pounds. It is adorned with 2,688 sparkling Waterford Crystals, creating a dazzling spectacle as it marks the arrival of the new year. In contrast, the very first New Year’s Eve ball was much smaller, measuring just 5 feet across, and was constructed from iron and wood, weighing in at 700 pounds.
The month of January derives its name from Janus, the ancient Roman deity who symbolizes beginnings and transitions, often depicted with two faces to represent looking both forward and backward. This theme of new beginnings resonates with many, as approximately 45% of Americans engage in the practice of making New Year’s resolutions. The most popular goals include losing weight, getting organized, and increasing savings. This tradition of setting resolutions can be traced back to the ancient Babylonians, who would make promises to their gods at the start of the year.
Interestingly, New Year’s Day is also notable for a more somber statistic: it ranks as the holiday with the highest number of vehicle thefts, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau. This fact serves as a reminder to stay vigilant during the celebrations.