Ever since the spectacular global celebrations of 1999, and the utter failure, despite incalculable fearmongering, of the Y2K Monster to cause a single problem, New Year’s Eve/Day has been left a second-tier holiday in search of an identity.
Some cities have turned to a “First Night” celebration, offering arts and entertainment for families with children. Such gatherings are generally alcohol-free. This shows just how far afield this poor holiday has stumbled. New Year’s Eve with kids, and without alcohol … that’s a concept from Bizarro World.
Don’t get us wrong. We love kids. And we only support responsible drinking of alcoholic beverages. We just prefer that New Year’s Eve remain an adults’ holiday.
Other traditions have also been turned on their heads. Apparently New Year’s Eve is a bad time to make resolutions. Too much pressure, and/or merrymaking makes it difficult to adhere to heartfelt pledges made at midnight. Or something.
So we endorse what’s left: Ringing in the new year with champagne and kisses at midnight. OK, more like 9 p.m. It is an adult holiday, after all. We need our sleep.
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