From speed-eating grapes to swimming in icy water: 9 unusual New Year's traditions from around the world (11 photos)

The true flavor of a place is revealed in how it celebrates international holidays, especially New Year's.





The beginning of a new year is a time of celebration, reflection, and unique rituals. From the eccentric to the downright outlandish, these bizarre New Year's traditions offer insight into the local mentality (on the one hand), but can also be confusing and even more baffling (on the other).

1. Spain: 12 Grapes at Midnight



In Spain, when the clock strikes midnight, Spaniards hastily eat a grape with each strike. This isn't related to winemaking, but is believed to bring good luck. The tradition, known as "Las Uvas de la Suerte" (the grapes of good luck), likely originated as a marketing ploy by winegrowers in the 19th century.

2. Portugal: Jumping on the right foot and eating raisins for good luck





In Portugal, besides drinking champagne at midnight, there are some interesting rituals. To start the year well, some try to jump off a chair and land on their right foot as the New Year approaches. Another common tradition, similar to the Spanish one, is eating 12 raisins as the clock strikes midnight, making a wish for each month.

3. Italy: Throw Out the Old



At New Year's, Italians take the idea of ​​"getting rid of the old" to truly dramatic heights. In Naples and other southern cities, there was a tradition of throwing old furniture and household items out of windows, symbolizing a new start. Over time, this tradition became less literal and evolved into a spring cleaning.

4. Germany: Fortune Telling with Tin and Wax



Think it can't get any weirder? No, it doesn't. Germany has one of the most unique traditions—"Bleigießen," or tin casting. Participants melted small pieces of tin and poured them into cold water, where the metal hardened, taking on strange shapes. These were used to predict the year's future. Nowadays, for safety reasons, wax is used instead of tin.

5. Bulgaria: Wishes with Survakana



In Bulgaria, New Year's is celebrated with the "Survakana" ritual. Children make "survakana"—dogwood sticks decorated with popcorn, dried fruit, yarn, ribbons, small bagels, and wool—and then lightly tap them on the backs of their loved ones, chanting wishes for health and prosperity in the new year.

6. Czech Republic: Fortune Telling with Apple Cores



In the Czech Republic, fortune telling with apples is popular during New Year's. The fruit is cut crosswise and the shape of the core is examined. If it resembles a star, it brings great luck, while if it resembles a cross, it foretells potential trouble. This simple prediction has become a popular pastime at holiday gatherings.

7. Poland: Winter Swimming



In Poland, daredevils celebrate the first day of the year with an ice-cold swim. This tradition, called morsowania, is considered a way to strengthen the immune system and fortify the spirit. It's not for the faint of heart, but it's certainly unforgettable.

8. Hungary: Pork for Good Luck



In Hungary, the New Year's table must include pork—a symbol of progress and prosperity. Roast meat and sausages are served. Poultry is avoided, however, as chickens are believed to "rake up" good luck with their paws. This culinary omen guarantees a delicious holiday dinner and a promising year.

9. Malta: Open Windows for New Opportunities



In Malta, they take the idea of ​​a strong start seriously. At midnight, locals open their windows and doors to let out the old year with all its negative energy and let in a new one, full of fresh opportunities.



Do you have any time-tested New Year's rituals and traditions?