Why Do We Kiss Someone At Midnight On NYE?

So why do we kiss someone at midnight? The tradition of kissing someone at midnight on New Year’s Eve has several historical and cultural roots:

1. Superstition and Good Luck: In many cultures, a kiss at midnight is believed to bring good luck and ensure a year of love and positive relationships. The idea is that starting the new year with affection and connection sets the tone for the months ahead.
2. Roman Festival Origins: Some historians trace the tradition back to ancient Roman festivals like Saturnalia, which involved lots of revelry and public displays of affection. These celebrations blurred the lines between partying and rituals, influencing later customs.
3. European Masquerade Balls: In the Middle Ages, European masquerade balls included a tradition of unmasking and kissing at midnight. This was symbolic of purification and starting the new year with a clean slate.
4. Pop Culture Influence: Over time, media and movies have cemented the idea that a New Year’s kiss is romantic and significant. It’s now a cultural norm in many places, thanks to the reinforcement in films and TV shows.
5. Human Connection: A New Year’s kiss is also a natural way to express closeness and celebrate with those you care about. It’s a moment of joy and connection during a universally shared milestone.

Remember, we’re not just grabbing any random stranger and going in for a smooch. Have fun!

So who are you puckering up for at midnight?!