It is a tradition in England to celebrate the end of the old year and welcome in the new year at the end of December. December 31 is New Year’s Eve. It is not a public holiday. Most people go to work as usual. In the evening, many English people have parties in their homes. Others celebrate in pubs or clubs with their friends and families, or attend outdoor gatherings and firework displays.
Just before midnight on New Year’s Eve, people hold hands and sing a traditional song called "Auld Lang’s Syne". They count the seconds down to the new year and when the clock strikes midnight, they hug and kiss and wish each other a happy new year! Sometimes people set off fireworks as the new year begins. People often drink a toast to the coming year with a fizzy alcoholic drink called champagne. Some people let their children stay up late to join in with the celebrations.