3, 2, 1, Happy New Year! The new year rolls around filled with hope, expectations, and desire to progress each year. But, why has it become such a big deal? New Year’s Eve comes with loads of traditions that people participate in each year. New Year’s Eve has become such an extravagant event that includes fireworks, the ball drop in New York City, and celebrations all across the world.
When asked why New Year’s Eve is so important, Gracie Mongno ‘27 said “it symbolizes a fresh start to the new year, and I love being able to celebrate it with friends and family.”
Taking place over winter break here at BHS, students had their own way of celebrating the event. Milo Consolla-Kutsuna ‘27 says “I really enjoy New Year’s Eve, and so I went to a party and had a really good time.” Ben Balian ‘27 agrees, saying “I had a few friends over and it was a great time to ring in the new year.” Most people stay up until midnight to watch the ball drop and celebrate the beginning of a new year with family and friends. James Ferrante ‘27 says “I was at my friends’ house and stayed up till midnight and watched the ball drop in New York City on TV. I’m a big fan of New Year’s Eve, and it was a special experience to have with my friends.”
A common experience that these students seem to have is their connection with friends and family. New Year’s Eve is centered around those you love most, as it is important to ring in the new year bringing good luck into the next chapter of your life.
It is very popular in the US to watch the ball drop in Times Square, as many people go there to celebrate and there are many musicians there to perform. This year, the Jonas Brothers performed just after midnight, with Ryan Seacrest hosting the show. In Brazil, people go to the beach dressed in white and jump seven waves, making seven wishes for the upcoming year. Mrs. Snyder, an English teacher here at BHS, has her own unique traditions with friends and family. She says “We celebrate with the same group of friends and family every year, and have fondue for a sweet start to the new year.” With her kids and their friends, they also make a DIY ball drop with saran wrap. “Each of the kids roll a die and get as many Mississippis to wrap as much as they can, revealing toys along the way.”
In Spain, for each of the 12 chimes of the bell at midnight, they eat 12 grapes for good luck heading into the next year. Gaia Albeniz de Rinaldis ‘27 says “This tradition is all about taking a moment to remember the year we are leaving behind and appreciating the people that will be surrounding us in the next year. It represents family and also a bit of superstition, because Spanish people believe that it brings good luck.”All around the world, different people have different celebrations to bring in the new year.
Another huge component of New Year’s Eve is making New Year’s resolutions. All across the world, people make New Year’s resolutions as “goals” for the year to come. The point of New Year’s resolutions is to give yourself a reasonable goal to accomplish and improve yourself throughout the next year.
Alex Fraunfelder ‘27 says “Making New Year’s resolutions really helps me focus on a goal. An example of this is a couple of years ago, I wanted to throw 85 mph and I ended up hitting it later that year.”
New Year’s Eve is a very important holiday as it gives people time to celebrate with their families and friends, set goals for the upcoming year, and welcome the new year. Have a great 2025 BHS.
