As the New Year approaches, cultures worldwide embrace unique and quirky superstitions to usher in good fortune.
Here are some lesser-known traditions that might intrigue you:
- Smashing Pomegranates in Greece
In Greece, it's customary to smash a pomegranate against the front door at midnight. The abundance of seeds symbolizes prosperity and good luck for the coming year.
- Carrying Empty Suitcases in Latin America
In countries like Colombia, walking around the block with an empty suitcase is thought to ensure a year filled with travel and adventure.
- Wearing Polka Dots in the Philippines
Filipinos don polka-dotted clothing on New Year's Eve, as the round shapes are believed to attract prosperity and good fortune.
- Eating 12 Grapes at Midnight in Spain
Spaniards consume 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight, one for each chime of the clock, to secure luck for each month of the coming year.
- Throwing Furniture Out the Window in Italy
In some Italian towns, people toss old furniture out of their windows to symbolize letting go of the past and embracing the future.
- Banging Bread Against Walls in Ireland
An Irish superstition involves banging bread against the walls and doors of a house to ward off evil spirits and bad luck.
These diverse and quirky superstitions highlight the rich tapestry of global traditions that make New Year's celebrations uniquely fascinating.
