New Year Traditions and Superstitions

December 29, 2022||inPersonal Insurance|new years traditions, personal insurance

As the world collectively ushers in the dawn of a new year, New Year’s Day stands out as a universal celebration marked by a tapestry of customs and beliefs spanning cultures and continents. In this compilation of interesting facts and superstitions, we explore New Year’s customs worldwide, perfect for sparking lively conversations among friends and family as we embark on another journey around the sun.

New Year Traditions and Superstitions
Click here to submit an inquiry to Murphy Insurance or call us at 800 222 8711

The famous lowering of the New Year’s Eve Ball in Times Square first happened in 1907. It was an illuminated 700-pound iron and wood ball covered with one hundred 25-watt light bulbs. Today, the ball, designed by Waterford Crystal, is 12 feet in diameter and weighs 11,875 pounds. It’s covered with 2,668 Waterford crystals.

* Dropping the ball was a practice that started in the 1800’s in England. A “time ball” was dropped daily at one o’clock to allow sailors to synchronize their clocks.

* More vehicles are stolen on New Year’s Day than on any other holiday, according to the NICB.

* Austrians consider it bad luck to eat lobster on New Year’s because lobsters walk backward, which might cause your luck to reverse.

* All year long, visitors to Times Square write their New Year’s wishes on official pieces of Times Square confetti, which are then added to the one ton of confetti poured out over the crowd on New Year’s Eve.

* Old Lang Syne means Old Long Since.

* 40%-45% of Americans make one or more resolutions each year. Most resolutions are to start a new habit rather than break an old one.

* Italians believe wearing red underwear on New Year’s Eve will bring you luck in the New Year.

* Latinos believe that holding money in your hand at midnight will ensure economic prosperity.

* Over 20% of all champagne bottles sold in the U.S.A. are sold in December.

* Around 600 B.C., the ancient Greeks had a tradition of carrying a baby in a basket to honor Dionysus and symbolize his rebirth…starting the tradition of a baby symbolizing the new year.

* Brazilians wear white clothes on New Year’s Eve to bring good luck and peace in the New Year.

* Not only are fireworks beautiful to watch, but some believe setting off fireworks dispels evil spirits and unpleasant memories.

Whatever your New Year traditions are, may the year ahead be happy. Murphy Insurance wishes you and your family much health, happiness, and prosperity.

Read Other Blog Posts

Murphy’s Law Now Officially Sponsored by Murphy Insurance

Murphy’s Law: Now Officially Sponsored by Murphy Insurance

Murphy Insurance is now the official sponsor of Murphy’s Law—because if anything can go wrong, it probably already has. To mark the occasion, we’re rolling out a tongue-in-cheek lineup of “coverage” for life’s most ridiculous moments, from lost socks to seagull snack theft. While these faux policies are just for fun (for now), our real team is always here with real coverage for life’s unpredictable turns. Happy April Fools Day from Murphy Insurance—when Murphy’s Law strikes, call Murphy Insurance.
Read more
Auto Insurance in Hudson MA

Auto Insurance in Hudson, MA: What You Need to Know

If you live in Hudson, MA, or the surrounding areas, securing the right auto insurance is essential. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend traveler, or a first-time driver, having the appropriate coverage ensures protection on the road and compliance with Massachusetts’ legal requirements.
Read more
Car close-up

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run

When you’re involved in a vehicle collision and the other driver takes off without exchanging insurance information, this is commonly referred to as a hit-and-run. Review the following guidance to understand what information to collect and who to contact following a hit-and-run incident.
Read more
Pest Prevention Keep Your Home Pest-Free with Proactive Measures

Pest Prevention | Keep Your Home Pest-Free with Proactive Measures

Pests can cause structural damage, contaminate food, and pose health risks, making proactive prevention essential since home insurance doesn’t cover pest-related damage. Key prevention tips include proper food storage, maintaining outdoor vegetation, regular home inspections, and keeping living spaces clean to minimize pest attraction. For persistent issues, professional pest control may be necessary, and Murphy Insurance is available to provide guidance on home protection and insurance coverage.
Read more
Stairs

How to Prevent Falls at Home

Falls are one of the most common and dangerous accidents that occur at home and on the job—especially on staircases. In order to determine whether there are fall hazards within your home, be sure to ask yourself these key questions.
Read more
Outdoor Maintenance: Protecting Your Home and Enhancing Your Curb Appeal

Outdoor Maintenance | Protecting Your Home and Enhancing Your Curb Appeal

Regular outdoor maintenance not only enhances your home's curb appeal but also prevents costly damage and potential insurance issues. Key tasks include cleaning gutters, inspecting the roof, maintaining landscaping, power washing exteriors, and ensuring outdoor structures like fences and decks are in good condition. Staying proactive with seasonal upkeep helps protect your home, reduce long-term repair costs, and maintain insurance coverage eligibility.
Read more
Hot Tub Safety 101 | Protect Your Home, Guests, and Peace of Mind

Hot Tub Safety 101 | Protect Your Home, Guests, and Peace of Mind

Hot tubs offer relaxation but come with safety and liability risks, including potential injuries, health concerns, and insurance coverage gaps. Key precautions include supervising children, maintaining proper water chemistry, setting safe temperature limits, and enforcing responsible usage to prevent accidents. Homeowners should review their insurance policies and consider additional coverage, such as a personal umbrella policy, to ensure financial protection while enjoying their hot tub safely.
Read more
Car keys

Avoiding Problems When Buying Used Vehicles

While buying a used vehicle will save you money in purchase price and help you avoid depreciation costs, it is important to do your research before you purchase one. To avoid buying a car with hidden problems, consider these purchase precautions.
Read more
Contractor

Avoiding Contractor Fraud

It’s important to stay informed when dealing with contractors to reduce the risk of contractor fraud. Use these tips to avoid contractor fraud concerns.
Read more

Visit Our Personal Insurance Page

Personal Insurance

Life is an ever-changing journey, and it deserves a thoughtful, comprehensive plan to protect the things and people that matter most. Our dedicated team at Murphy Insurance is here to assist you in creating that plan. With a wide range of product options at our disposal, we ensure that your plan is tailored precisely to your requirements. Our commitment to providing clear, intelligent guidance to help you achieve true peace of mind. Learn more about our personal insurance portfolio.