New Year’s Eve is the time to let go of old worries and step into the next year with a heart full of love and joy. It won’t be wrong to say that New Year’s Eve is one of the most significant occasions worldwide. (Photo: Pexels)
People bid goodbye to the past with several traditions, like eating specific foods or bursting fireworks. But did you know that there are many superstitions associated with the date as well? New Year’s Eve traditions are all about attracting prosperity as you step into another year. (Photo: Pexels)
In Spain, there is a custom of eating 12 grapes at midnight. The tradition, which later spread to Latin America, promises good fortune to people if the grapes are consumed quickly as the clock chimes 12.
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In the southern part of the US, black-eyed peas and collard greens are seen as symbols of prosperity; peas indicate luck, and greens are a sign of money.
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In Greece, people eat vasilopita cakes, some of which may hide a coin; finding the coin ensures blessings all year long.
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Another tradition associated with New Year’s Eve is kissing a loved one at midnight. It is believed that the action can seal affection for the next 12 months. Some beliefs also say remaining single as the clock strikes midnight may risk loneliness.
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Other notable customs around the world include Italians throwing old furniture from windows to invite renewal and discard the past.
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Brazilians wear white and jump seven times in the waves at beaches, making a wish on each wave to honour the sea goddess Iemanjá.
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![The Scottish "first-footing" favours that a tall, dark-haired man enter a house first after midnight, bringing with him gifts like coal or whiskey for luck; others entering first could harbour misfortune. Many families keep their windows or doors open to let out the old year.](https://images.news18.com/ibnlive/uploads/2025/12/Screenshot-2025-12-31-075800-2025-12-608b1265ccbb42ab44069e5c514645ac.png "The Scottish "first-footing" favours that a tall, dark-haired man enter a house first after midnight, bringing with him gifts like coal or whiskey for luck; others entering first could harbour misfortune. Many families keep their windows or doors open to let out the old year.")
The Scottish “first-footing” favours that a tall, dark-haired man enter a house first after midnight, bringing with him gifts like coal or whiskey for luck; others entering first could harbour misfortune. Many families keep their windows or doors open to let out the old year. (Photo: Pexels)
Irish folklore suggests banging bread on walls can repel evil spirits. Some individuals avoid lending money or cleaning their homes on this day to not sweep away good fortune. (Photo: Freepik)
In India, New Year’s Eve is marked with some global superstitions that have been adapted locally. Some people burst firecrackers to ward off evil spirits, just like Diwali. Many customs draw from Hindu traditions. People may avoid doing dishes, laundry, or washing their hair on New Year’s Day to prevent any chances of family misfortune. (Photo: Pexels)
Lending money or valuables is avoided to keep prosperity within the home. People wear new clothes, especially red, to symbolise happiness, and make small resolutions to invite good luck. (Photo: Pexels)
Other Indian beliefs include opening doors at midnight to discard the old year, and doing minimal work on the day to ensure good career prospects without starting big projects. (Photo: Freepik)