January and the Pagan Origins of the “New Year” The month of January is named after Janus (often mispronounced as “Janice”), an ancient Roman god. Janus was the deity of beginnings, endings, gates, doors, and transitions. He is traditionally depicted with two faces—one looking to the past and one to the future. In ancient Rome, January 1st was dedicated to Janus and marked a ceremonial reset of civic and religious life. People offered sacrifices, exchanged gifts, and made vows to gain favor from

Happy January, and Happy New Year! 🎉 January, the first month of the year, was named for the Roman god Janus, known as the protector of gates and doorways that symbolize beginnings and endings. Janus is depicted with two faces, one looking into the past, the other with the ability to see into the future. Aside from New Year's Day, Epiphany, and importantly, National Puzzle Day, January 2026 brings us the Full Wolf Moon on January 3 and the Quadrantid Meteor Shower on January 4. The fireworks co