Looking for luck, love, or wealth in 2025? Each culture has their own traditions for how to bring about success in the new year. Here are a few you might want to try when the clock strikes twelve.
Spain – The 12 Lucky Grapes
Aptly named las doce uvas de la suerte, which translates to “the twelve lucky grapes,” it is a common Spanish tradition to eat a grape for each of the 12 chimes of the clock at midnight. The tradition is said to have originated sometime in the 1800s, but became most common in the early 1900s. Each grape is representative of one month in the year. If you can eat all of them in roughly 36 seconds–the time between the first and last chimes–your next 12 months will be full of luck and prosperity. Some say, if you don’t finish all 12 grapes in time, you’ll be faced with misfortune in the new year instead! If you’re feeling extra dedicated, taking the tradition underneath a table is said to bring luck in love and relationships.
Germany – Lead Pouring
A far more labor-intensive custom, Bleigiessen, or “lead pouring,” is a German tradition in which one is able to predict their coming year. Originally, it was practiced using lead, but this form of the tradition has become uncommon due to its health risks. Instead, many use tin or wax as a substitute. If you’re interested in trying this one out, kits are sold on Amazon and Etsy! The first step is to gather a small amount of the material you’re using on a spoon, and melt it above a candle or flame. Then, immediately pour the liquefied substance into cold water. The process causes the medium to form into varying shapes, which can then be interpreted as what the future holds. For example, a tree-like shape represents growth and development of your skillset, while a flower means new friendships will bloom.
Colombia – Empty Suitcases
If you’re looking for a vacation in 2025, try the Colombian tradition La Maleta. On New Year’s Eve, people run around their houses–or even up and down the block–with empty suitcases in hand, symbolizing a year full of travel and adventure. The empty suitcase represents a clean slate, and a space to fill with new journeys. While the
true origins of the tradition are unknown, it seems to have been inspired from a few places. Some believe that the process represents the transition between the old and new year. We “pack” up the past and in turn “unpack” new opportunities. Others believe it came from those who have migrated or traveled in search of success.
Final Words
Do you plan to try your luck at one of these traditions? Maybe even all of them? Or do you have your own annual New Year's customs? No matter how you spend the holiday, I hope that you get everything you wish for! Happy New Year!
Sources:
https://sampere.com/blog/the-twelve-grapes/
https://germangirlinamerica.com/bleigiessen-new-years-eve-tradition/
https://uncovercolombia.com/blog/colombia-new-year-traditions/
