Discover New Year's Traditions from Around the World
New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day are full of exciting traditions, many of which are influenced by superstitions that people believe will bring luck or prosperity in the coming year. Every culture has its own unique customs, and today we’re taking a fun journey around the world to explore some of these fascinating traditions. Let’s dive in!
1. Spain: Eating Grapes for Good Luck
In Spain, it’s traditional to eat 12 grapes at midnight on New Year’s Eve—one grape for each stroke of the clock. Each grape represents good luck for one month of the upcoming year. This custom is followed in many Spanish-speaking countries and is said to bring happiness and fortune!
2. Denmark: Smashing Plates
In Denmark, people celebrate by throwing old plates at the doors of their friends’ and families’ homes. The more broken pieces you have, the better your luck will be in the coming year. It's a fun and noisy tradition that symbolizes letting go of the past and welcoming the future.
3. Japan: First Shrine Visit
In Japan, the first shrine visit of the year, known as "Hatsumode," is a significant part of New Year’s celebrations. Many people visit shrines to pray for good health, prosperity, and success. The Japanese also believe that the first person to enter their house in the new year will bring either good or bad luck, so it’s carefully planned.
4. Italy: Wearing Red Underwear
In Italy, wearing red underwear on New Year’s Eve is thought to bring good luck and love in the coming year. It’s also common to make a wish while putting on the red garment. This superstition is linked to the belief that red symbolizes good fortune and the start of a fresh, prosperous new year.
5. Scotland: First Footing
In Scotland, New Year’s Eve celebrations, called "Hogmanay," include the tradition of "First Footing." This involves the first person to enter your home after midnight being a tall, dark-haired man, as it’s believed that this brings good luck. A gift of coal or whiskey is often given to the homeowner to bring warmth and prosperity in the new year.
6. Colombia: Walking Around with a Suitcase
In Colombia, people often walk around their neighborhood with an empty suitcase at midnight in hopes of a year filled with travel and adventure. This superstition encourages wanderlust and the desire to explore new places in the year ahead.
New Year's Superstitions Around the World: A Snapshot
Wondering how popular these traditions are globally? Here’s a quick look at how people across the world are celebrating New Year’s with superstitions:
Superstitions People Follow on New Year’s Eve
Embrace Your Own New Year’s Traditions with Life Planner
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