Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — New Year’s Eve is a universally celebrated occasion, marking the end of one year and the hopeful beginning of another. Across the world, cultures have developed unique and fascinating traditions to ring in the new year.
Each country has its own unique way of celebrating the countdown to the New Year, ranging from quirky traditions to heartfelt rituals. While some believe these customs bring good fortune, others see them as an annual traditions or simply as a way to strengthen family and community bonds.
Here are some of the most captivating customs from around the world:
Eating 12 Grapes at Midnight – Spain
In Spain, New Year’s Eve is marked by the tradition of eating 12 grapes at midnight, one for each chime of the clock. Each grape represents a wish or hope for good fortune in the coming year. Successfully eating all 12 grapes in time is believed to guarantee a prosperous year ahead.
Burning the ‘Año Viejo’ Effigies – Ecuador
Ecuadorians say goodbye to the old year by burning effigies known as “Año Viejo.” These dolls, often made from paper, wood, and old clothes, are filled with fireworks and symbolize the challenges and negative experiences of the past year. Burning them signifies letting go of the past and starting anew.
Smashing Plates – Denmark
In Denmark, it’s customary to smash plates or crockery against friends’ and family members’ doors on New Year’s Eve. The larger the pile of broken dishes, the more luck and goodwill are believed to come your way. Additionally, Danes often jump off chairs at midnight to “leap” into the new year with enthusiasm.
Walking with an Empty Suitcase – Colombia
In Colombia, many people usher in the new year by walking around their block with an empty suitcase. This quirky tradition is believed to bring travel opportunities and adventures in the year ahead. The more steps taken, the better the chances of fulfilling travel dreams.
Hogmanay and First-Footing – Scotland
Scotland’s Hogmanay celebration is legendary, with “First-Footing” being one of its key traditions. The first person to enter a home after midnight is believed to set the tone for the year ahead. Ideally, the visitor brings symbolic gifts such as bread, salt, or whisky to ensure prosperity and good fortune.
Displaying Round Fruits – The Philippines
In the Philippines, round fruits symbolize wealth and prosperity due to their resemblance to coins. Households prepare tables adorned with 12 round fruits, one for each month of the new year. Filipinos also wear clothing with circular patterns, hoping to attract good fortune.
Jumping Seven Waves – Brazil
In Brazil, coastal celebrations are highlighted by a tradition where people jump over seven waves at midnight, making a wish with each leap. This ritual is rooted in Afro-Brazilian culture, honoring the sea goddess Iemanjá. White clothing, symbolizing peace and renewal, is commonly worn.
Thorough House Cleaning and Temple Visits – Japan
In Japan, the New Year (Shogatsu) is a time for fresh starts. Families undertake a thorough cleaning known as “osoji,” clearing away dirt and negativity from the past year. Many also visit temples to pray for good fortune and offer symbolic gifts.
Eating Oliebollen – The Netherlands
The Dutch celebrate New Year’s Eve by indulging in oliebollen, deep-fried dough balls sprinkled with powdered sugar. These sweet treats are a beloved tradition and are believed to bring good luck for the coming year.
Throwing Water Out the Window – Puerto Rico
In Puerto Rico, it’s common to throw buckets of water out of windows at midnight. This act symbolizes cleansing the home of negative energy and making room for positive vibes and good fortune in the new year.
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From eating grapes in Spain to jumping waves in Brazil, each tradition carries the universal theme of hope, renewal, and the pursuit of happiness. No matter how you celebrate, the heart of the New Year remains the same: a chance to start fresh and embrace the opportunities ahead with optimism and joy.
(Raidi/Agung)
