Every December two camps seem to emerge regarding New Year's Eve festivities: those who like to go out for a noisy celebration, and those who prefer a quieter evening with family and close friends. Whatever your preference, you can make December 31st a memorable evening.
This popular song of friendship and salutation, which first appeared in print in 1796, is credited to the Scottish poet Robert Burns. As you sing the lyrics, remember to think about old acquaintances.
Dig out those champagne flutes and uncork the bubbly! Celebrate the dawning of the new year with a rousing toast over a festive beverage, which adds a personal touch to your holiday gathering, and creates an auspicious start to the new year. If you need a little help, we've got instructions on making a toast, and a guide to saying "cheers" in countries around the world.
| Country | Toast | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| China | Ganbei | Dry glass |
| England | Cheers | Cheers |
| France | A votre santé (son-tay) | To your health |
| Germany | Prosit (pro-zit) | Here's to you |
| Ireland | Slainte | Cheers |
| Israel | L'chaim (la-hi-um) | To life |
| Italy | Salute (sah-loo-tay) | To your health |
| Korea | Konbai (kun-buy) | Bottoms up |
| Mexico | Salud (sah-lood) | Good health |
| Poland | Na zdrowie (zdrov-yeh) | To your health |
If New Year's Eve was invented for the energetic party-goer, New Year's Day was designed for the hungover couch potato who adores football. The day after the big night is all about recovering, snacking and watching the college bowl games with your buddies.
Do you make and break your resolutions every year? Do you insist in January that you're going to lose 20 pounds and then abandon the goal come February? We'll help you stop the vicious cycle and figure out how you can actually keep your resolutions, from losing weight to kicking the smoking habit.