New Year celebrations have been occurring since the Babylonians in Mesopotamia, although at different points of the year based on seasons and Harvest.
Our current date for the festivities was given to us by Caesar. After introducing the Julian calendar, he declared that 1st January would be the first day of the year. Partly in honour of Janus, the month’s namesake and Roman God of new beginnings.
The celebrations included sacrifices, sweet treats, the exchange of small inexpensive gifts, and much drinking and entertainment. Even the tradition of a new years kiss hails from these times.
Is celebrating New Year not steeped in Pagan history?
I believe you had a great night! 🙂
New Year celebrations have been occurring since the Babylonians in Mesopotamia, although at different points of the year based on seasons and Harvest.
Our current date for the festivities was given to us by Caesar. After introducing the Julian calendar, he declared that 1st January would be the first day of the year. Partly in honour of Janus, the month’s namesake and Roman God of new beginnings.
The celebrations included sacrifices, sweet treats, the exchange of small inexpensive gifts, and much drinking and entertainment. Even the tradition of a new years kiss hails from these times.
Is celebrating New Year not steeped in Pagan history?
I believe you had a great night! 🙂