Since the establishment of the Gregorian calendar in 1582, New Year’s Eve has been a time of both celebration and superstition. Here are some ways to ring in the New Year (and, if you believe in such things, improve your lot in the coming year.)

• Staying up until midnight is the most prevalent New Year’s custom, and (if you’re the superstitious type) also the most necessary, since the other New Year’s Eve traditions are often performed at midnight to get the year off to the right start.
• New Year’s Eve parties and gatherings are another beloved tradition that has its roots in superstition. Celebrating the New Year surrounded by friends is not only fun, but is thought to reaffirm bonds for the next 12 months. If you live far away from some of your friends, consider sending a card or a message to bring you both good fortune in the coming year.
• Similarly, kissing your lover at midnight is thought to bring sweetness to the relationship in the coming year (unless one of you has the flu). To avoid a cold year if you are ill, consider exchanging chocolate kisses instead to avoid infecting your partner.
• When I was growing up, every New Year’s at midnight my family would open up the front door, ring bells, bang pots and pans, and shout “Happy New Year!” into the darkness to frighten away evil spirits. In many places, fireworks are set off on New Year’s Eve for similar effect.
• Black-Eyed Peas, pork, and oysters are all foods that are thought to bring wealth and good luck when eaten on New Year’s Eve. My family typically had a bowl of oyster stew after ringing in the New Year.

Whatever your family’s traditions, have a Happy New Year!