List of New Year Traditions Practiced in Different Nations Across the Globe
NEW YEAR TRADITIONS – Here are some traditions from the different countries in the world that are practiced on New Year’s eve.
Once again, we are on the last days of the year and a new year is about to enter. Many people are not only preparing food, drinks, and music for the New Year’s eve celebration but as well as gearing up for the practice of some traditions.
There are several New Year traditions that have survived the passage of years. Here are some of these practices that remain widely-observed in many countries:
Wearing of White
Brazilians usually gather in beaches for the New Year. Many of them also wear white which symbolizes good luck and peace.
Throwing of Water Out of the Window
Many people in Puerto Rico believe that throwing a bucket of water out of the window drives away bad luck. In fact, many people also sprinkle sugar outside their homes to invite good luck.
Eating of Round Foods
In the Philippines, many Filipinos see to it that they hgave 12 round fruits on the table on New Year’s eve. It is believed to attract abundance. The “round” shape of fruits are believed to resemble coins. In Italy, lentils area also served.
Eating 12 Grapes
A lot of people in Spain practice the tradition of eating one (1) grape at each stroke of midnight. It is believed that doing so guarantees a lucky year. However, on the other side, it is also believed that misfortune may come to those who will fail to finish the eating of grapes by the time the clock stops chiming.
Making of Resolution
Also one of the New Year’s eve traditions is the writing of resolutions. This tradition dates back to 4,000 years ago. It is practiced even in schools.
Jumping Seven Waves
Many people in Brazil believe that the luck increases if your surf and jump over seven (7) waves — one for each.
Singing of “Auld Lang Syne”
On New Year’s eve, a lot of homes play the “Auld Lang Syne”. It was often credited to Scottish poet Robert Burns but he later clarified that he did not write the lyrics of the song.
Deck Out of the Door
One of the New Year traditions practiced in different countries is the hanging of bundles of onions. This New Year’s eve tradition is believed to invite growth and prosperity.
Leaping into 2026
The leaping from a chair to a new year is also one of the New Year traditions that is widely practiced in different countries across the globe most especially in Denmark. It is believed to invite good luck.
Opening of Windows and Doors
Also one of the most popular New Year traditions in the world is the opening of windows on doors which is believed to be a gesture of letting the old year out so the new one can take its place.
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