New Year’s Facts [Video]

New Year's is the oldest of all holidays.  It was first observed in ancient Babylon about 4000 years ago.  Here are some more fun facts about the first holiday of the year.

Black-eyed peas (not the singing group) are often consumed in certain parts of the U.S.  Some people believe the peas bring good luck for the new year.

Cabbage and ham are on many New Year's Eve dinner tables.  They are supposed to bring prosperity.

The song "Auld Lang Syne", usually sung at the stroke of midnight on New Year's, was composed by Robert Burns in the 1700's.  The term means "old long ago", and "the good old days."

On December 31, 1907 the first ball was lowered in Times Square.

The ball that will be dropped Monday night is made from Waterford crystal.  It weighs 1000 pounds and has 9000 LED lights.

The ball was not lowered in 1942 and 1943 because of wartime restrictions.

Noise making and fireworks on New year's Eve dates back to ancient times when noise and fire were thought to dispel evil spirits and bring good luck.

On New Year's Eve about 75 percent of parties in the U.S. are with less than 20 people.

And, the tradition of making New Year's resolutions dates way back to the early Babylonians.

Health and happiness to you for 2013 and beyond!