New Year’s traditions from around the world

Cristina Gonzalez/Staff Writer

As a new calendar year begun, people around the globe celebrated and welcomed 2019 with a variety of New Year traditions.

On the islands of Cuba and Puerto Rico, New Year traditions stem from people believing in the phrase, “out with the old, in with the new.” Like many Latin American countries, people hope to prevent negative energy from lingering into the new year through cleansing their homes, gardens and even the streets.

For Puerto Ricans and Cubans, this involves throwing a bucket of water out a window or door. The tradition dictates that the spilled water signifies renewal; essentially, it means all negative energy, including evil spirits, are removed from the household. If you find yourself near a beach, Puerto Ricans see it as an opportunity to throw themselves backwards into the breaking waves to keep bad spirits at bay.

When it comes to Colombian New Year’s traditions, it’s all about surrounding yourself with the things you wish to have in the upcoming year. For Colombians who seek a year filled with travel, the tradition warrants having a suitcase handy before midnight. This New Year’s tradition consists of taking your suitcase on a leisurely stroll around the block, guaranteeing folks a year full of exciting adventure.

On the other hand, those looking for financial security and stability must carry money in their pocket or in hand.  Similarly, Venezuelans follow a tradition of carrying a high value bill in hopes of gaining wealth the following year.

It’s not surprising that many New Year’s traditions surround food. Most Haitian homes will have a pot of Soup Joumou, a pumpkin soup. Every year, the cuisine is prepared for friends and family to enjoy as they celebrate the day together. The dish is deeply symbolic of Haiti’s history, progress and freedom. In India, New Year’s Day is called “Ugadi” meaning the “beginning of a new age.” Celebrations involve feasting on a traditional dish with six tastes, each representing different emotions and experiences.

A more common New Year tradition you may have already heard of is one involving grapes. Each individual must eat twelve grapes, one for each stroke of midnight. Eating the grapes symbolizes twelve lucky months ahead. Though the custom originated in Spain, it is practiced here in the United States and in several Latin American countries.

No matter which unique tradition you partook in during your New Year celebrations, 2019 is guaranteed to be a great one.

Photo by MILKOVÍ on Unsplash.