Thousands of people gather in Times Square and watch a big concert with popular singers and musicians like Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift.

When it is close to midnight, everyone begins counting down the seconds.

At ten seconds the big ball begins to drop. When the ball drops all the way, fireworks explode in the air and confetti falls over everyone.

Confetti is small, colorful pieces of paper that are thrown in the air during celebrations.

Afterwards it is very messy and the workers sweep it up with brooms.

At midnight there is a tradition called " The New Year's Kiss ". Husbands and wives kiss, but sometimes friends kiss too.

It is important to kiss someone at midnight for good luck in the New Year.

Some people believe that if you don't kiss anyone, you will be lonely all year.

In addition to kissing, there is a famous song that is played after midnight.

The song is called " Auld Lang Syne " and it means " times gone by " in Scottish.

When we hear the song, we remember our loved ones from the past year. It has been a popular New Year's tradition since 1929.

A New Year's party at home has four important things. First, silly hats and decorations to celebrate the New Year.

Then, noisemakers. At midnight, everyone shouts " Happy New Year " and makes lots of noise.

Third, champagne. People fill their glasses and make a toast to the New Year by clinking their glasses together.

Last, and most important, every party has lots of friends and family to celebrate together.

On the first day of the New Year, many people celebrate with a traditional meal.

The meal includes green vegetables, cornbread, pork, and black-eyed pea.

Lastly, an important New Year's tradition is making New Year's resolutions.

Resolutions are promises to improve yourself in the New Year.

Some examples include losing weight, doing more exercise, or even learning a new language.