New Year’s Day in Vatican City (Holy See) ― Date, History, and Details
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Let's dive deeper into learning more about the history of New Year’s Day in Vatican City (Holy See) and why people celebrate or observe it.
History of New Year’s Day in Vatican City (Holy See) and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
New Year’s Day in Vatican City (Holy See) is celebrated on January 1st, which is also the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God. This holiday commemorates the moment when the Virgin Mary was proclaimed the Mother of God by the Council of Ephesus in 431 AD.
The day begins with a special mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, which is attended by the Pope and other high-ranking members of the Catholic Church. After mass, there is a procession to the square in front of the basilica, where the Pope delivers his annual New Year’s address.
In recent years, the Pope’s address has focused on topics such as peace, social justice, and environmental protection. After the address, the Pope leads a prayer for peace and gives the traditional New Year’s blessing, “Urbi et Orbi” (“To the City and the World”).
After the Pope’s address and blessing, many people gather in St. Peter’s Square to listen to music and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The celebration of New Year’s Day in Vatican City typically ends with a spectacular fireworks display in the evening.