New Year's is one of the oldest holidays, originating in 2000 BC in ancient Babylon where it was celebrated for 11 days to mark the new moon after the spring equinox. The Romans continued the tradition, celebrating in March, but later standardized the calendar to begin the new year on January 1st. Over time, Christianity incorporated New Year's celebrations, and the tradition of counting down and celebrating with fireworks and kissing at midnight on December 31st spread globally.