As you all make your plans to ring in 2022, consider partaking in one of the New Year’s traditions from around the globe. The past few years have really been unlike any other, but one thing has been clear—specific practices are now more essential than ever, as they keep us grounded and remind us of the future ahead (and what to look out for, if you’re following any New Year’s superstitions).
Several people still cannot travel this year, so this article from Hello Hello Language on the Go rounded up a few New Year’s traditions from cultures all over the world.
Brazil – Heading to the beach
In Brazil, people generally go to the beach since it is summer there. Instantly after midnight, you are supposed to jump seven waves while making seven wishes. This tradition is rooted in paying homage to Yemanja, the goddess of water. Before you get in the water, you are supposed to wear all white, as it symbolizes purity.
The United States – Watching the ball drop
A huge number of Americans gather around their television sets (or on the streets of Times Square, in spite of freezing temperatures) to watch the ball drop at the stroke of midnight every year. Starting off in 1907 to ring in January 1908, New York Times owner Adolph Ochs created this event to draw attention to the Times’s new headquarters, and it has been an annual spectacle and one of the most popular New Year’s Eve celebrations since, then.
Spain – Eating 12 grapes
The Spanish begin off their new year by eating 12 grapes, which symbolize every strike of the clock. The tradition of las doce uvas de la suerte began in the late 19th century and is believed to ward off evil while increasing your chances of a prosperous and lucky new year. However, this will work solely if you manage to eat all of the grapes in a matter of seconds since they require to be gone by the time the clock finishes striking midnight.
Japan – Eating soba noodles
People in Japan start off the new year by having a warm bowl of soba noodles. The tradition dates back to the Kamakura period and is linked to a Buddhist temple giving out noodles to the poor. Because the long thin noodles are firm yet simple to bite, it is believed consuming them symbolizes a literal break away from the old year.
France – Feasting with Champagne
While the concept of having wine in France is about as groundbreaking as florals for spring, the French up the ante and go berserk on Champagne to celebrate the new year. There is generally plenty of dancing and party hopping, The food choices, are sparkling wines coupled with oysters, turkey, goose, or a Cornish hen.
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