The Real Reason Why People Kiss at Midnight on New Year
January 1, 2024
source: Pexels
Can we just take a moment to talk about that age-old tradition we all look forward to every New Year’s Eve? Yes, I’m talking about the magical midnight kiss that has us scrambling to find that special someone or, in my case this year, left me feeling a little empty-handed. I didn’t get my kiss!
Let’s kick things off with a little history lesson, shall we? The precise origins of the New Year’s Eve kiss are as elusive as my midnight companion this year. However, many historians believe it has roots in two winter festivals: Saturnalia in ancient Rome and Hogmanay, a Viking celebration still alive and well in Scotland.
Saturnalia, held during the winter solstice, was essentially the grandest party of the year, complete with public drunkenness and festivities that would make today’s epic parties seem tame. Somewhere along the line, the assumption that kissing was involved emerged – and, let’s be real, it’s a pretty safe bet. With Saturnalia falling between December 17 and 23, experts speculate that this riotous celebration laid the groundwork for our modern New Year’s kiss.
On the flip side, Hogmanay traditions in Scotland do include the coveted New Year’s kiss. However, instead of locking lips with a special someone, these kisses were given out freely to strangers and friends along with wishes for a “Guid New Year.” It’s like spreading a little love and luck all around – I can get on board with that!
Jumping ahead to the Middle Ages, one of the earliest literary mentions of a New Year’s kiss comes from the epic tale of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. Picture this: it’s New Year’s Day, and there’s a holiday game where the losing ladies must give something to the men – and happily, no less. Meanwhile, the victorious guys seem “not angry” about the whole situation, which is probably the medieval way of saying they were thrilled. This tradition might just be the precursor to our modern midnight smooch!
Now, fast forward a bit to the good ol’ U.S. of A. Could the New Year’s kiss have hitched a ride with German immigrants? It’s a possibility! Our melting pot of traditions often owes its diversity to the various cultures that have shaped our nation. So, next time you lock lips as the ball drops, you might just be channeling your inner German heritage – who knew?
But let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Why do we kiss, and what does it signify for us? Well, besides the obvious affection and connection, there’s a belief that whoever you’re with at midnight sets the tone for your luck in the coming year. So, choose your midnight companion wisely, my friends – your fortune could depend on it!
And here’s a crucial piece of advice: the kiss should always be consensual. In fact, any kiss, at any time, should be consensual. Let’s make a collective resolution to respect each other’s boundaries and not make anyone uncomfortable in the pursuit of a memorable New Year’s smooch.
So there you have it – a little journey into the origins of our beloved New Year’s kiss. Whether you’re reeling from a missed opportunity like me or planning for next year, just remember to keep it lighthearted, consensual, and full of good vibes. Cheers to a Guid New Year filled with love, luck, and plenty of kisses – on your terms, of course!