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New Year's Day, known as "Le Jour de l'An," is celebrated on January 1st, marking the first day of the year on the Gregorian calendar. The celebration of the new year has ancient origins, with festivities in France historically influenced by Roman customs and later by Christian traditions.
Traditionally, New Year's Day in France is a family holiday. People spend time at home with their loved ones, enjoying special meals that may include luxurious items such as foie gras, seafood, and champagne. Exchanging New Year’s greetings and wishes for good health and prosperity is an important custom that continues into January.
The French also follow the tradition of "étrennes" (New Year’s presents), which has its roots in Roman times when people would offer each other tokens for good luck. This tradition has evolved, and today it often involves giving money to service workers like postal workers or refuse collectors.
On New Year's Eve leading into New Year's Day, large public gatherings and spectacular fireworks displays are common in major cities such as Paris, where thousands gather along the Champs-Élysées or near the Eiffel Tower to celebrate at midnight. However, on New Year's Day itself, the atmosphere is more subdued; many businesses are closed as people enjoy a day of rest after the festivities.
In some regions of France, there may be parades or other local events on New Year's Day. Additionally, it’s common for French people to send out New Year’s cards throughout the month of January to wish friends and relatives well for the year ahead.
While not specific to New Year's Day itself but closely related to its celebration is "Le Réveillon de la Saint-Sylvestre," which refers to the festive meal eaten on New Year's Eve. These meals are often lengthy affairs featuring elaborate dishes intended to bring culinary delight to those gathered for the occasion.
