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If youre coupled, you probably havent given it much thought.
Photo: Bettmann / Getty Images
Most likely, a combination of all three.
But your New Years kiss need not be so dramaticespecially, once you consider its true meaning and origins.
What is the origin of the New Years kiss?
Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan inWhen Harry Met Sally.
The saucy tradition of starting theNew Yearwith a smooch can be traced back to the winter solstice festival Saturnalia.
In ancient Rome, Saturnalia was a mid-December pagan festival that honored Saturn, the agricultural god.
That said, Saturnalia wasnt totally innocent.
It also included the relaxing of societal norms, a public sacrifice, and non-stop partying.
For many, it involved a few too many alcoholic beverages, explains etiquette expertJo Hayes.
The common consequences of said indulgence?
A fair amount of PDAincluding kissing.
Eventually, Saturnalia merged with the 12-day-long Christian celebrations of Christmas, which traditionally stretched past the New Year.
But in modern America, the midnight kiss tradition has origins in English and German folklore.
German immigrants are typically credited for bringing this custom stateside, explainsDr.
Daniel Compora, a professor who teaches folklore and popular culture at The University of Toledo.
Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan inWhen Harry Met Sally.
Why do we kiss on New Years?
Beyond the tradition, a New Years kiss also carries superstition.
Or, it could simply be a matter of plain oldrunkennessmuch like our Saturnalia-celebrating forebears.
Its also important to keep your expectations realistic, according toeharmonysrelationship expert,Laurel House.
The New Years kiss can be like the physical fireworks that were seeing outside, she toldVogue.
How long should a New Years kiss be?
It really depends on who one is kissing, confirms Hayes.
If, however, its theHallmark-movie-romantic kiss, well, how long is a piece of string?
These things dont have a formula.
After all, it really comes down to the meaning behind the action.
Its not as much about length as it is about authenticity, agrees Long.
Whether short or long, its celebratory, an invitation to enjoy the present and embrace the future.
Allow yourself to relax, and be open-minded about what the night will bring.
New Years can offer an opportunity to get out of your comfort zone if yourecraving a change.
Consider making the first move at a holiday party, or even planning a first date for December 31.
When it comes down to it, understand what a New Years kiss means for you.
And if youre not a fan of the kissing tradition?
The point of New Years Eve isnt about kissing.
