Every January, resolutions rush in with familiar promises, but the habit traces back far beyond modern planners and fresh starts. From the Babylonians and Romans to later traditions shaped by faith, ...

Every year in late December, my childhood home transformed into a vision of American bliss. We’d gather to ornament a tree, drape string lights around the house, and sit down to an elaborate feast.

Before you plant a New Year’s kiss on someone, learn the origins of this popular tradition ...