I am well aware that there is a difference of opinion on this matter between scholars, and I respect that. However, there are a few points I'd make to that.
Firstly, the number of scholars who condone the celebration of the New Year are in the absolute minority.
Secondly, the scholars who do condone it almost never actually celebrate the New Year themselves or with their families – at least not in public – showing that even though they may believe it acceptable, it is not preferable.
Thirdly, many of them predicate their views based on a number of caveats – that it is no longer a pagan or Christian ritual, that it is good da'wah to non-Muslims and that it not involve any un-Islamic element. Most of these caveats are difficult if not impossible to satisfy adequately.
This is meant to be a gentle reminder and not a harsh rebuke. It would be against the spirit of Islam to not show kindness and respect to non-Muslims. We are encouraged to be warm and welcoming, not least because it will attract others to our faith. By the same token, it is against the spirit of Islam to do any of the above by subordinating our own faith, culture or heritage.