It began with a kiss ...

Kellie Brierley on what makes New Year’s Eve so special, and not just for movies

NEW Year’s Eve night — when loved ones turn to their nearest and dearest to ring in the year with the traditional midnight kiss.

The countdown kiss is not an excuse for an old smooch — it has sentimental and historic meaning. It dates to the ancient Romans when, on New Year’s Eve, they hosted the Festival of Saturnulia at winter solstice. They would kiss and often the kisses would lead to a night of debauchery.