January is the first month of the year in the Gregorian calendar, marking the beginning of a new year. It is often associated with fresh starts and resolutions, as many people take this time to set goals for the year ahead. The month is named after Janus, the Roman god of beginnings and transitions, symbolizing the duality of looking back at the past and forward to the future. In the Northern Hemisphere, January is typically characterized by cold weather and winter activities. Many regions experience snowfall, making it a popular time for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Additionally, January hosts various celebrations, including New Year's Day on January 1st, which is celebrated worldwide with fireworks and festivities.