1. Arizona became a state on January 1, 1912: One of the most significant events in Arizona's history occurred on January 1, 1912, when the state was officially admitted into the union as the 48th state.

2. The founding of Phoenix: January 1, 1868, also marked the founding of Phoenix, Arizona's capital city. A group of settlers led by Jack Swilling established the townsite at the confluence of the Salt and Verde Rivers, which later became downtown Phoenix.

3. Arizona's first governor takes office: On January 1, 1912, George W. P. Hunt was inaugurated as the first governor of Arizona. He was a prominent Democratic politician who had lobbied for statehood and helped draft the constitution.

4. The Rose Bowl: The Rose Bowl is a famous college football game that takes place every year on January 1st. In 1997, Arizona State University played in the Rose Bowl for the first and only time in school history, losing to Ohio State University.

5. New Year's Day celebrations: Like in many other parts of the world, January 1st is celebrated as New Year's Day in Arizona. Many people attend parades, watch fireworks shows, and participate in other festivities to kick off the year.