New Year’s Eve is probably the only night where it’s totally acceptable to kiss strangers, wear capes for no reason, and try resolutions you know you’ll give up by January 3. It’s full of joy, hope, reflection, and, let’s face it, a lot of human stupidity it’s time
But what do we really know about this universal celebration? Let’s dive into some little-known facts, fun silly things people have done to celebrate the new year, and weird drink concoctions you probably shouldn’t try (but however you can).
Little known facts about New Year’s traditions
The calendar mess
Did you know that January 1 was not always the beginning of the new year? In ancient Rome, the new year began in March, in line with the planting season. In 46 AD, Julius Caesar introduced the Julian calendar and declared January 1 as the beginning of the new year. Even then, it took centuries for many cultures to accept it.
The low-tech beginnings of The Ball Drop
The iconic Times Square ball dropped in 1907, but it wasn’t very high-tech. The first ball weighed 700 pounds and was lit by 100 incandescent bulbs. Today’s version is a 12-foot, 11,875-pound crystal spectacle.
Strange traditions around the world
• DenmarkPeople throw old plates and dishes at the doorsteps of friends and family to bring good luck.The bigger the pile of broken dishes outside your house, the more popular you are.
• SpainIt is customary to eat 12 grapes at midnight, one for each chime of the clock.
• JapanBuddhist temples ring their bells 108 times, symbolizing the purification of the 108 earthly desires of Buddhist beliefs.
Examples of people’s stupidity on New Year’s Eve
The year of the Y2K bug made everyone panic
Remember New Year’s 1999? The world collectively freaked out, convinced that computers would crash and civilization would collapse because they couldn’t handle the year 2000. Spoiler:
Fireworks are wrong
Every year someone decides they’re a pyrotechnics expert after a few drinks.From setting off fireworks from their hands to setting rooftops on fire, humanity’s relationship with fireworks and alcohol is a disaster waiting to happen.
The “let’s swim in the ice water” crowd
Polar dives, where people plunge into icy water to ring in the new year, are commonplace in many countries, and lead to hypothermia and ER visits for the unprepared. Wetsuits exist for a reason.
Drunk texts and regrets
New Year’s Eve is the unofficial Olympics of bad decisions. From texting exes to confessing undying love to people you don’t really love, alcohol + longing + midnight = chaos.
Weird or quirky drinks to ring in the New Year
The Prairie Oyster
Feeling brave? This “hangover cure” cocktail includes raw egg yolks, hot sauce, and a splash of vinegar. Some people drink it for luck. Others drink it because they’ve lost a bet :
Cement mixer
A party that no one really enjoys. This shot includes Baileys Irish Cream and lime juice. The acid in the lime makes the Baileys curd in your mouth, creating a thick, horrible sensation.
Smoker’s cough
Are you ready to spoil your taste buds? This nasty concoction combines Jägermeister and mayonnaise. No, it’s not a joke.
Champagne and Red Bull
For those looking to ring in the new year while feeling like their heart might explode, this combination conveys both celebration and regret.
Snake wine
Popular in parts of Southeast Asia, this drink is made by infusing rice wine with a whole snake, including the venom.It’s said to have medicinal properties, but it’s mostly just a conversation starter for the brave (or foolhardy).
And NO, you don’t want to try any of these.
Why do we do this every year?
Despite its absurdity, the New Year holds a special place in our collective psyche. It’s a chance to reflect on the past, dream about the future, and, for better or worse, let it go. Whether you’re watching fireworks, eating grapes, or trying to shoot with a cement mixer, the beauty of New Year’s is its universality.
So when you’re about to celebrate, take a moment to appreciate the ridiculousness and joy of it all. the best solutions are the ones you don’t announce on social media.
What you should definitely NOT do on New Year’s Eve
Light fireworks inside
You think this goes without saying, but every year someone tries to own Fireworks outsideaway from curtains, carpets and people who value their eyebrows.
Mix every liquor you have into one drink
The “Anything But the Kitchen Sink” cocktail is not a fun experience. It’s a one-way ticket to nausea and a terrible New Years.
Climb to any height for a better view
Whether it’s a rooftop, a ladder, or a statue, gravity doesn’t care about your holiday mood. Stay grounded, literally.
Make a suggestion on a whim
Yes, champagne and fireworks make things magical, but if you weren’t going to propose before the countdown, maybe wait until you’re sober to make life decisions.
Try the eat out midnight picnic challenge
Is a dozen grapes cute at midnight? A dozen tacos or a whole wheel of cheese? Not so much. Don’t let overconfidence ruin the party.
Drive drunk or let someone else do it
This is serious. call a rideshare, assign a designated driver, or just crash on a friend’s couch.Starting the year safe is always the best choice.
Start a deep philosophical debate at 11:59 p.m
“What time is it?” isn’t the vibe when everyone is yelling “5, 4, 3, 2, 1.” Save your existential thoughts for another day.
New Year’s Eve is about fun, not regrets, so make your night memorable for the right reasons.
New Year’s challenge
This year, skip the drunken fireworks mishap and try something new.
• Write a letter to your future self that opens next year.
• Make a gratitude list instead of a resolution list.
• Call an old friend instead of texting an ex.
Whatever you do, have fun, stay safe and make sure someone is sober enough to remember the good times. Happy New Years!