New Year's Day in Luxembourg

History and Tradition: New Year's Day, known as "Neijoerschdag" in Luxembourgish, is celebrated on January 1st each year. This day marks the beginning of the new calendar year and is a public holiday in Luxembourg, as in many other countries around the world. The origins of New Year's Day as a celebration can be traced back to ancient civilizations that adopted various calendar systems. In Luxembourg, as part of the Western tradition, it follows the Gregorian calendar introduced by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582.

Celebrations: On New Year's Day, people in Luxembourg often spend time with family and friends. It is common for Luxembourgers to exchange "Bonne Année" greetings, which means "Happy New Year" in French, one of the three official languages of the country alongside Luxembourgish and German.

• Family Gatherings: Many people host or attend family gatherings where they enjoy traditional meals together.
• Concerts and Events: Although less vibrant than New Year's Eve celebrations, some concerts or cultural events may take place on this day.
• Relaxation: After the festivities of New Year's Eve (Silvester), January 1st is typically a day for relaxation and reflection.
• Outdoor Activities: Depending on the weather, individuals might engage in outdoor activities such as walking or hiking through Luxembourg’s picturesque landscapes.

Given that New Year's Day is a public holiday, most businesses and government offices are closed, providing an opportunity for residents to rest and celebrate the start of a new year.