Weird Ways Countries Celebrate New Year's

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Weird Ways Countries Celebrate New Year's

New Year's Eve is one of the most widely celebrated events across the world. However, different cultures have their own unique and sometimes bizarre ways of welcoming the new year. From eating grapes to smashing plates, here are some of the weirdest New Year's traditions around the world.

1. Spain – Eating 12 Grapes at Midnight

A Tradition for Good Luck

In Spain, people eat 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight, one for each chime of the clock. This tradition, known as "Las Doce Uvas de la Suerte," is believed to bring good luck for each month of the coming year.

• Started in the late 19th century.
• Each grape represents one month of good fortune.
• Challenging to eat all 12 before the clock stops chiming.

The tradition has since spread to other Spanish-speaking countries, and some people even believe that if one of the grapes is sour, that month will be unlucky.

2. Denmark – Smashing Plates

Breaking Dishes for Friendship

In Denmark, people welcome the new year by smashing plates against the doors of their friends and family. The more broken dishes you find outside your door, the more friends you have.

• Considered a symbol of good fortune.
• Traditionally done on New Year's Eve.
• A fun and messy celebration.

While this might seem like an unusual way to show affection, it is a cherished tradition that emphasizes the importance of friendship and good luck.

3. Japan – Ringing Bells 108 Times

Purification Through Sound

In Japan, Buddhist temples ring their bells 108 times at midnight. This ritual, called "Joya no Kane," is meant to cleanse people of the 108 human sins in Buddhist beliefs.

• Each bell chime represents a human desire or sin.
• Symbolizes spiritual purification.
• Encourages a fresh start for the new year.

Many Japanese people also eat soba noodles, known as "toshikoshi soba," which symbolizes longevity and resilience.

4. Colombia – Carrying an Empty Suitcase

Hoping for a Year of Travel

Colombians who wish to travel in the coming year walk around their neighborhood carrying an empty suitcase at midnight.

• Symbolizes a year full of adventures.
• Often done with family members.
• Popular in other Latin American countries as well.

Some believe that the longer and faster you walk, the more likely you are to experience exciting travel opportunities.

5. Ecuador – Burning Effigies

Out with the Old, In with the New

In Ecuador, people create and burn effigies called "Año Viejo," which represent the past year’s misfortunes. These effigies are often shaped like politicians, celebrities, or fictional characters.

• Symbolizes letting go of bad luck.
• Burning is done at midnight.
• Often accompanied by fireworks and celebrations.

The tradition is believed to purify the soul and ensure a better year ahead.

6. Philippines – Round Objects for Prosperity

Circles Bring Good Fortune

Filipinos believe that round objects symbolize wealth and prosperity. On New Year's Eve, they fill their homes with round fruits and wear polka-dotted clothes to attract good fortune.

• Represents coins and financial prosperity.
• Families prepare a table full of round fruits.
• Coins are also placed in pockets for extra luck.

Some even go as far as making sure they have exactly 12 round fruits to represent each month of the coming year.

7. Greece – Hanging Onions

A Symbol of Growth and Rebirth

In Greece, onions are hung on doors as a symbol of rebirth and continuous growth. This tradition is believed to bring prosperity and renewal in the new year.

• Onions are considered a symbol of fertility and renewal.
• Parents tap children on the head with onions to encourage growth.
• Tradition dates back centuries.

8. South Africa – Throwing Furniture Out the Window

Clearing Out the Old

In some parts of South Africa, people throw old furniture and appliances out of their windows to symbolize a fresh start for the new year.

• Popular in Johannesburg and surrounding areas.
• Done to make space for new opportunities.
• Can be dangerous, leading to restrictions in some cities.

9. Scotland – First-Footing Tradition

Welcoming Good Luck

In Scotland, the first person to enter a home after midnight, known as the "first-footer," is believed to bring luck for the year. Traditionally, this person brings gifts such as coal, whiskey, or bread.

• Rooted in ancient Celtic traditions.
• Blonde or red-haired visitors are considered unlucky.
• Common during Scotland’s famous Hogmanay celebrations.

10. Brazil – Jumping Over Seven Waves

A Ritual for Good Fortune

In Brazil, many people head to the beach at midnight and jump over seven waves while making wishes for the coming year. This tradition is linked to honoring Yemanjá, the goddess of the sea in Afro-Brazilian culture.

• Each wave represents a different wish.
• Many also wear white for purification.
• Offerings of flowers and candles are often made to the ocean.

Conclusion

These unique New Year's traditions reflect the diversity of cultures around the world. Whether it’s eating grapes, smashing plates, or burning effigies, each celebration carries a deep meaning and symbolizes hope for a better year ahead. Which of these unusual traditions would you like to try?

@2025 Haruka Cigem - Curious Facts Explored.