This New Year’s Eve, many Americans are planning to trade the bustling crowds and loud celebrations for a more serene night at home, according to a recent poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. With a significant number of adults prioritizing comfort over chaos, the trend highlights a shift in how people are choosing to welcome 2025.
A majority of U.S. adults are opting for a quiet New Year’s Eve spent at home. This preference for a more relaxed celebration resonates with Carla Woods, a 70-year-old from Vinton, Iowa, who shared, “As I’ve gotten older over the last few years, it’s like if I don’t make it to midnight, it’s not a big deal, you know?” While staying in tops the list, nearly 20% are considering visiting family or friends, and only about 5% are venturing out to bars or organized events.
Interest in making New Year’s resolutions remains high, with more than half of respondents planning to set goals for 2025. Optimism for the coming year varies, though. Approximately 40% believe 2025 will be better personally, while others are less certain about changes from the previous year.
The poll also shows age influences how people plan to celebrate the New Year. Younger adults are more inclined to celebrate at bars or events, whereas about 30% of those aged 60 and above may skip celebrations altogether. Kourtney Kershaw, a 32-year-old bartender, observes this shift firsthand, noting that people in her age bracket are hesitant due to event costs and the general economic climate. “Party packages or an entry fee are like a turnoff, especially with the climate of the world and how much things cost,” she mentioned.
Some, like Anthony Tremblay from Pittsburgh, are bucking tradition altogether. Tremblay, 35, plans to spend New Year’s with his wife in Ireland, saying, “I wanted to do something unique this year, so I did.” Meanwhile, Woods will continue her important work on the Iowa Warmline during the holiday, providing support for those in need. “Holidays are really hard for people, so I don’t mind working,” she said.
The generational divide becomes apparent in resolution trends too. Millennials and Gen Z are especially committed, with about two-thirds likely to set resolutions, compared to nearly half of their older counterparts. Women are also leading in resolution-making. Common goals include losing weight, focusing on mental health, exercising, and improving financial priorities. Tremblay is targeting weight loss and self-care, while Woods is focused on staying social and active.
For Kershaw, health-centered resolutions are prevalent among her peers, but she has her sights set on travel. This year, she’ll be welcoming 2025 at a hockey game at Wrigley Field, a change from her usual quiet night in. “Hockey’s my favorite sport. So I will be watching hockey and bringing in the new year,” she said.
As 2025 approaches, the mood across America seems to lean towards introspection rather than exuberance, with many choosing to celebrate New Year’s Eve at home. While resolutions remain a staple, the way individuals plan to usher in the new year appears more diverse and personal than ever. Whether it’s through travel, self-improvement, or simply staying in with loved ones, the upcoming New Year offers a chance for Americans to redefine their traditions in ways that resonate most with their current lives.
Source: Yahoo
