History of The Month of January

By: Elizabeth Patrick

According to “The Month of January 2023: Holidays, Fun Facts, Folklore”, “January was named for the Roman god Janus, known as the protector of gates and doorways who 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.” Originally January and February were not a part of the Roman calendar as the winter months were considered dormant. Some of the most popular holidays throughout the month of January include New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr Day, Benjamin Franklin’s birthday, and the Lunar New Year. The Lunar New Year is celebrated each year annually on January 22nd. The Lunar New Year is celebrated mostly in East Asia and begins with the first new moon after the winter solstice. Some other fun days in January include National Chocolate-Covered Cherry Day, National Bean Day, Elvis Presley’s Birthday, National Houseplant Appreciation Day, National Dress Up Your Pet Day, National Penguin Day, National Answer’s Your Cat’s Question Day, National Puzzle Day.

January is considered the coldest month of the year in the northern hemisphere. Also, in the northern hemisphere, the days are starting to get longer again, and the light begins to emerge again. January is also known as the best time to start planning your garden for the upcoming season. The birthstone for the month of January is the garnet, and it is said to keep the weak safe during travel. January’s flowers include the snowdrop and the carnation. In conclusion, January is a very interesting month with lots of fun events and days to celebrate.