The history of midnight, a tale of timekeeping
Midnight. The moment the clock strikes twelve. A sliver of time suspended between the past and the future, a gateway to the infinite. It’s a breath, a pause, a threshold where everything feels possible — a sacred hour that whispers, “Dare to dream.”
But what is midnight, really? Is it simply the tick of a clock or the chime of a bell? Or is it something far greater— a portal, a moment when the universe leans in and asks, "What will you do with this gift of time?"
Among the tales whispered under the cover of darkness, one story stands out: The midnight train to the other world.
A darkened station, the faint sound of a train whistle cutting through the stillness. You stand there alone, clutching the weight of your regrets, your unspoken dreams, your untaken chances. The air hums with possibility. And then, through the fog, it appears — the midnight train.
AI generated photo
This is no ordinary train. It doesn’t run on tracks, but on whispers of longing and flickers of hope. It comes for those standing at the crossroads of their lives, those who yearn for escape, reinvention or an answer to the unasked questions of one's soul.
To board is to surrender to the unknown. To step into its shadowy embrace is to leave behind all that you are, in search of all that you could be. If you were at the edge of possibility, would you step aboard the train?
Why midnight?
Midnight is not just a time; it is a phenomenon. It is the liminal space, the crack in reality where the universe pauses — a moment that exists neither here nor there, neither in the past nor fully in the future. It is the hour of alchemy, when transformation becomes possible and magic feels within reach.
Cultures across time have understood this.
To the Celts, midnight was a thin place, a time when the veil between worlds lifted and unseen forces stirred. In Japan, the hour of midnight was when tengu spirits might appear, offering gifts of wisdom to those who dared to seek them.
In ancient Chinese philosophy, midnight marks the pivotal moment when Yin—the energy of stillness and introspection—peaks and begins transitioning into Yang, the force of action and vitality.
Yin and Yang teach us that life is not static. Darkness holds the promise of light, just as light cannot exist without shadow. Midnight is the perfect embodiment of this duality, the still point in the turning world where we glimpse the interplay of opposites. It’s the quiet hum of possibility before the rush of the new.
Midnight asks us to confront the deepest question of all: What if?
As the clock strikes twelve this New Year’s Eve, the world will erupt in cheers, fireworks and resolutions shouted into the night. But beneath the noise, there is a quieter magic waiting.
We are the designers of possibility and midnight reminds us of this truth. It’s not about the clock; it’s about the pause. The willingness to ask, what’s next? It’s about embracing the awe of existence, the sheer magic of being alive at this precise moment in time.
This year, don’t just mark the turning of the clock. Step aboard the midnight train. Let it carry you to a future filled with wonder. And remember: The journey begins the moment you dare to dream.
As the clock ticks closer to midnight, there’s an electric charge in the air—a mix of anticipation reflection, and the promise of a fresh start. Whether you're raising a glass with loved ones, awaiting the sound of the midnight train rolling through or simply soaking in the moment, there's one thing that brings it all together: The food.
Party appetizers are the heartbeat of any New Year’s Eve gathering, fuelling conversations, laughter and that all-important countdown. These small, delicious bites keep everyone energized and connected as we step into the new year. So, here’s a roundup of my favourite recipes—designed to be as easy to prepare as they are to enjoy.
For an extensive best New Year's Eve appetizers list, click here.
Bacon-wrapped dates are a classic appetizer that never goes out of style!
Though they were a staple of dinner parties in the '70s, the recipe is about 200 years older—an English Christmas dish called "devils on horseback." The combo of sticky-sweet date, funky blue cheese and crispy, salty bacon is as delicious as ever. This recipe adds a jalapeño slice for kick and a final brush of honey for a glossy finish.
How to make the best charcuterie board.
Fruit, nuts, and different types of cheese all make an impressive snack spread.
Create a gorgeous party platter like this one. There are so many fun elements to snack on. Just have a wooden cutting board, cheese board, marble slate or even a serving platter ready to use. Then, follow these steps on how to make a charcuterie board—pair it with a pitcher of sangria and you'll have yourself a party!
Smoked salmon dip.
This creamy smoked salmon dip would be just as delicious on New Year's Eve as it would for New Year's brunch. Make a big batch and save any extras for breakfast the next morning. Packed with freshly chopped dill, minced shallot, capers, lemon zest, and smoked salmon, this zesty dip is a must!
Finnish beetroot salad (rosolli)
Dating back to the 19th century, rosolli reflects Russian influence on Finnish cuisine.
In Scandinavian culture, herring symbolizes abundance and pairs beautifully with the vibrant beets in this fresh, flavourful salad. For an authentic touch, visit your local European deli for Matjes pickled herring. While it requires some chopping, this humble dish is well worth the effort.
Decadence in every bite—these chocolate truffles are the perfect sweet start to 2025!" ��✨
This New Year’s Eve, raise a glass, take a bite and step boldly into the new year. Here’s to a year filled with possibility, connection and wonder — cheers to 2025!
Monika Rekola is a certified landscape designer and horticulturist, passionate about gardening, sustainable living and the great outdoors. Contact her at [email protected].
