English Listening Exercise: "New Year's Day"

Free original listening materials for learners and teachers. Transcripts are placed below all audio/video files.

 

 

A2 Level (American accent)

B1 Level (British accent)

B2 Level, Version 1 (American accent)

B2 Level, Version 2 (American accent)
- with idioms and phrasal verbs

C1 Level (British accent)

Transcript (A2)

New Year’s Day is a special time for people around the world. It marks the start of a new year. Many people celebrate with family and friends. For example, in the United States, people watch fireworks and make New Year’s resolutions, like eating healthy or working harder. In Japan, families eat special foods called "osechi" and visit temples to pray for good luck. In Spain, people eat twelve grapes at midnight for good fortune. This day is a time to reflect on the past year and hope for a better future. (91 words)

Transcript (B1)

New Year's Day is an important event for people worldwide. It is the first day of the year, and it gives people a chance to start fresh. In many countries, there are unique ways to celebrate. For example, in the United States, people stay up late to watch fireworks and make resolutions, such as exercising more or saving money. In China, the Lunar New Year is celebrated with red decorations and family dinners for luck. In Spain, people eat twelve grapes when the clock strikes midnight, one for each month of the year, to bring good luck. New Year's Day is not only about celebrations but also about reflecting on the past year and planning for the future. (118 words)

Transcript (B2)

New Year’s Day is a meaningful occasion celebrated in diverse ways across the globe. It marks the beginning of a new year and symbolizes fresh starts and opportunities. In the United States, many people make resolutions, such as improving their health or focusing on personal goals, while fireworks light up the sky at midnight. Japan has the tradition of eating "osechi," colorful dishes that each represent good fortune, and visiting temples to pray for success in the coming year. Similarly, in Spain, the custom of eating twelve grapes at midnight is believed to bring luck for each month ahead. These traditions reflect the universal desire to leave behind the old year, embrace new possibilities, and connect with loved ones during this festive time. (123 words)

Transcript (B2) - with phrasal verbs and idioms

New Year's Day is a time for people worldwide to turn over a new leaf and start fresh. It's celebrated in many unique ways. In the U.S., people ring in the new year by watching fireworks and making resolutions, like cutting down on junk food or picking up a new hobby. In Japan, families gather to eat "osechi" and visit temples, hoping to bring in good luck. In Spain, it’s all about eating twelve grapes as the clock strikes twelve to kick off the year on the right foot. These traditions allow people to look back on the past year, leave behind old problems, and step into the future with optimism. (111 words)

Transcript (C1)

New Year’s Day holds great cultural and personal significance worldwide, as it symbolizes new beginnings and fresh opportunities. This day encourages people to pause and reflect on the past year while setting intentions for the future. Celebrations vary greatly depending on the culture. For instance, in the United States, people commonly stay up until midnight to watch fireworks and make resolutions, such as pursuing fitness goals or enhancing professional skills. In Japan, the New Year is deeply rooted in tradition; families enjoy "osechi ryori," a selection of symbolic foods, and visit temples to pray for blessings. Meanwhile, in Spain, the tradition of eating twelve grapes at the stroke of midnight is believed to ensure prosperity for the year ahead. Regardless of the specific customs, New Year’s Day offers a universal opportunity for individuals to embrace change, foster hope, and connect with loved ones. (143 words)