New Years Day

The first day of the year by the modern Gregorian and Julian calendars. It originally marked the Circumcision of Christ which is still observed in the Anglican and Lutheran Churches.

Who celebrates?

New Year’s Day is now considered a secular holiday and is celebrated by most people in the UK.

Some cultures and religions celebrate other New Year dates such as Chinese New Year and Jewish New Year (Rosh Hashana) but are likely to also celebrate the 1st of January too.

How do people celebrate?

• It’s usually celebrated at midnight with fireworks and local traditions such as New Year’s Resolutions.
• Traditions vary between Northern Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland.

What should I know?

• It’s a national holiday across the whole of the UK
• January the 2nd is also a public holiday in Scotland

How can I support others?

• Do not assume that someone will not be celebrating New Year’s just because they are of a different faith or culture. Ask your team if anyone also celebrates other New Year’s.
• Some people may find New Year’s Eve a difficult time due to loud noises, bright lights, and busy events. If you are providing services on New Year’s Eve take a person-centered approach and arrange activities accordingly
• Different cultures have different New Year’s Day traditions; ask your people what their traditions are and how they’d like to mark the new year.

New Year’s activities: https://blog.partydelights.co.uk/10-brilliant-new-years-eve-party-games-activities/

New Years’ traditions from around the world: https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/38341760