Why do some cultures celebrate the new year in winter?

Some cultures celebrate the new year in winter because winter is their favorite time of year, just like you love your favorite ice cream flavor.

Imagine your calendar is like a big chocolate bar, each season is a piece. In some places, winter is the first piece they get to eat, and it tastes really good. That’s why they pick that moment to say, “Here comes the new year!”

Winter is cold, but it's also quiet, like when you wake up early on a Sunday morning and everything is still. People can feel like the world is starting over again, just like how your day starts fresh after a good night’s sleep.

Some places have big parties or even light big fires, like how you might light a candle to make the room warmer. Others tell stories or sing songs that remind them of old times, it's like having a fun family dinner where everyone shares their favorite memory.

So, just like you love your favorite ice cream at a certain time of year, some people love winter and choose to celebrate the new year right when it begins!