The Day after New Year's Day is celebrated as an official public holiday in Romania, like in many other countries. The celebration continues from the night of December 31st, where Romanians welcome the New Year with large fireworks, joy, and happiness. As the New Year marks a significant moment of passage, festivities and parties often extend into the first day of January, and so, the subsequent day is deemed as an extension of these jovial celebrations.
On this day, post-New Year's Day, Romanians relax and reflect on the year that has passed while also planning upcoming year goals. Families spend time together, often going for walks in the beautiful snowy parks or engaging in winter sports. Food also plays an important role in continuing the festivities, with copious amounts of 'sarmale' (cabbage rolls), 'cozonac' (a sweet bread), and 'ciorba de perisoare' (meatball soup) consumed.
Another interesting tradition observed in Romania on the Day after New Year's Day is 'Sorcova', where children gently tap their parents and elders with a decorated stick while singing a special song. This tradition is believed to bring good health and prosperity to the recipients. While the day remains essentially a time for relaxation and recovery from the main New Year's Eve festivities, it provides an opportunity for families and communities to spend quality time together, enjoy delicious food and uphold beloved traditions.