British holidays, celebrations and traditions

This essay tends to be an introductory survey of the historical and social background of
British holidays, celebrations and traditions.
People of every culture celebrate holidays. Although the word itself “holiday” literally means “holy day” most of the American and British holidays are not related to religion but more commemorative in nature and origin as well. Public holidays (known as “bank holiday” in the United Kingdom and Ireland) are those holidays when the majority of the population who are not employed in essential services (like fire dept, ambulance, police) receive the days as holiday; and those employed in essential services usually receive an extra pay for these days. The United States bank holiday refers to those special cases when the banks should be closed because of executive orders as a remedy for financial crisis. 

Celebrations are o party or a special event at which you celebrate something. For example: Christmas Day, Easter, Halloween . Most English-speaking countries have similar festivals and holidays which are important. However, there are particular days which the others do not celebrate, such as Independence Day in the United States. 
The reason I choose this subject is that I am very found of the British holidays, traditions and celebrations. Since I was little I have loved and I used to imitate them when I played with my dolls. The most frequent performed was the tea ceremony. The cups, the kettle, the milk, the sugar, the lemon slices, the biscuits, everything was at its place in perfect order. When the tea was coming even the teddy bears were thrilled because they knew that something wonderful was about to happen.

New Year in United Kingdom is celebrated on January 1, the first day of the first month as per the Gregorian Calendar. This day was officially declared as New Year's Day in 1752. It is the time to ring out the old year and bring the new one by merry making.
New Year is the much awaited celebration for the people of UK. They love to enjoy each and every minute of the going year. Theme parties, salsa dance and live performances are the some of the rocking events of New Year in UK. Another enthralling part of the New Year festivities are the New Year cruises in England. These are the most unique and memorable part of New Year in England. So, if you are planning to have an exciting New Year blast, England is all set for one. 

New Year Traditions in Britain
A very old custom of 'first footing' is still followed in Britain with sincerity. It is said that the first male visitor to the house on the New Year's day brings good luck. A blonde, a red-haired or a woman is not allowed to enter the house first as they are supposed to bring bad luck. The male visitor usually brings money, bread or coal as these are considered auspicious gifts. At some places, there is a tradition of gifting the holy mistletoe. It is believed to bring prosperity for the recipient. Another tradition which is popularly celebrated is the "burning of the bush". It symbolizes burning of all past events.