Traditions can be such a wonderful concept, the idea of finding ways to unite as one within a community or to simply bring your family and friends closer.
As you make plans for the New Year, why don’t you take a deep dive and discover all the different traditions that take place all around the world.
United States
Americans are either in front their TV or on the streets of Times Square watching the ball drop at the stroke of midnight every new year.
This tradition started in 1907 as the people awaited for 1908.
The reason it started was because the New York Times owner Adolph Ochs wanted to draw attention to the Times’ Headquarters and it has become an annual spectacle ever since.
Spain
In Spain it is a tradition to start the New Year off by eating 12 grapes.
Each grape symbolises each strike of the clock and it started in the late 19th century.
It is believed that it helps to keep the evil away while also increasing chances for a lucky year ahead.
In order for this to work, you would have to eat all the grapes in a matter of seconds as they need to be gone by the time the clock finishes striking midnight.
Denmark
In Denmark it is tradition to throw old plates on New Years as broken plates brings your loved ones luck.
The more broken plates you find on your doorstep, the luckier you will be.
Philippines
On New Year’s Eve, it is tradition for families to serve 12 round fruits such as apples.
The shape of the fruit being served is believed to represent prosperity and each fruit is set to represent the 12 months of the year.
India
In India it is actually tradition to build a sculpture of an old man and burning it down.
The old man represents the previous year and burning him down represents the passing of grievances making space for the new year.
Greece
In Greece, hanging an onion outside your door is a way to bring good luck for the upcoming New Year.
It is believed that doing so symbolises fertility and growth.
Colombia
In Colombia, it is tradition to put 3 potatoes under the bed, one of them peeled, one not, and the other only partially pealed.
At midnight each person has to grab one with their eyes closed and the one they pick will symbolise either a year of fortune, financial struggle or a mix of the both.
Ireland
In Ireland, it is tradition for families to bang bread against the walls of their home.
This is done in order to ward off evil spirits and make way for a prosperous New Year.
Brazil
In Brazil it is summer during the New Year and thus immediately after midnight they head to the beach.
They are meant to jump 7 waves and make 7 wishes.
This New Year tradition pays homage to Yemanja, the goddess of water.
This tradition is done in white clothing in order to symbolise purity.
Canada
The temperature in Canada would be freezing but the Canadians love starting their New Year with ice fishing.
It is traditional for families to rent huts and cooking equipment so that they can feast with their loved ones right there and then.
Which one of these traditions amazed you the most? Would you give any of them a try? Let us know
