Now that everyone is getting into the groove of the new year it's a good time to take a look at some of the events and traditions that makes New Years such a fun time! The most famous tradition in the USA is the dropping of the ball in Times Square. Now, other places have put their own touch on this event, such as the peach drop in Atlanta and the Guitar in Nashville, but neither of these events are anywhere close to the popularity of Times Square. The ball drop started in 1907 at the new building for The New York Times to attract attention to the new square. Some other American traditions include the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl game as well as Hoppin' John, the southern dish of black-eyed peas, cabbage, and ham.
Other traditions around the world are interesting as well. In Spain it is common to eat 12 grapes at midnight to secure 12 happy months in the coming year. The Dutch burn bonfires of Christmas trees as well as shoot fireworks to purge the old and welcome the new. Japan celebrates the new year by holding "forget-the-year-parties" to say goodbye to old problems and worries and prepare for new beginnings.
No matter what corner of the globe you live in, there are a few customs common to everyone. One example is the dreaded resolution that everyone seems to keep for about a month or two before that piece of cake or cup of coffee start calling your name. Don't worry we all struggle with resolutions. The resolution is believed to have been started by the Babylonians to reflect on the past year and make changes for the better. Whether you are eating grapes and black-eyed peas or burning your Christmas tree with friends The Jones Team wishes you a happy and prosperous New Year!
