When Do You Say New Year’s Eve?

Answer: New Year’s Eve is the last day of the current year. For example, if it’s December 31, 2023, it’s still 2023.

On New Year’s Eve, people often wonder whether to refer to the current year or the upcoming year. Here’s a simple explanation:

The key moment is when the clock strikes midnight. At this point, the year officially changes. So, right before midnight, it’s still 2023, but the moment after midnight, it becomes 2024.

What to Say and When

• Before Midnight: When you’re at a New Year’s Eve party or event, and it’s still before midnight, you’re technically still in the current year. So, if it’s December 31, 2023, you would refer to it as 2023.
• After Midnight: The moment it’s past midnight, it becomes January 1st of the next year. So, as soon as it’s past midnight on December 31, 2023, it becomes January 1, 2024.

On New Year’s Eve, you’re still in the current year until midnight. The celebration, however, is focused on the excitement and anticipation of the upcoming year. So, while technically it’s still the current year, the spirit and conversation are often centered around the new year that’s just around the corner.