Seventy-one percent (71%) of Americans will offer a prayer for the New Year on New Year’s Eve. Thirty-six percent (36%) will have a drink to welcome in 2007.

The Rasmussen Reports national opinion survey of 1,000 adults found that younger Americans are far more likely to have a drink on December 31 than their elders and that older Americans are somewhat more likely to offer a prayer. However, among all age groups, the number who will pray exceeds the number who will drink.

Forty-six percent (46%) of men will have a drink on New Year’s Eve along with 27% of women. Seventy-seven percent (77%) of women will pray along with 63% of men (see crosstabs). Among men under 40, the number who will drink and pray is essentially even.

There is also a gender gap on another New Year’s tradition—the midnight kiss. That’s in the plans for 66% of men but only 52% of women. Seventy-one percent (71%) of those who are married expect a kiss along with 41% of those who are not married.

A separate survey found that 44% of Americans rate the year 2006 as good, excellent, or one of the best ever. Expectations are higher for 2007.

Crosstabs available for Premium Members only.