***The reason we kiss at midnight*** According to English and German folklore, the first person you encounter in a new year — and the nature of this encounter — sets the tone for the rest of the year. A kiss is about strengthening ties you wish to maintain in the future. If a couple that celebrates together doesn't take the time to lock lips, it doesn't bode well for the relationship. For single people, there's a superstition that not kissing anyone portends a year of loneliness.