Tuesday 29 December 2015

NEW YEAR'S EVE AROUND THE WORLD

Hello all!  I'm happy to be back behind the blogger screen, as it has been a little while since I last posted. 

I hope that all your Christmas festivities went well and that you are having fun preparing for New Year's Eve!


Perhaps you have your plans all sorted out, or maybe you are still trying to decide on what to do December 31st? Either way these fun and interesting traditions from around the world are something you might want to incorporate into your NYE night!



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Italy

On December 31st, you will find Italians donning red undies beneath their festive frocks, as they believe it brings good luck for the coming year. On January 1st, Italians keep the good luck coming by enjoying lentil dishes.


Spain


In Spain, it is custom to eat 12 grapes as the clock strikes midnight in order to bring good luck for the year ahead.  The trick to securing your good fortune is to eat the grapes in time - one by one, keeping time with the clock as it chimes midnight.


Ireland


We all know the "luck of the Irish," well here is a part of their secret: On New Year's day, individuals bang loaves of bread on doors and walls to chase the bad luck out of a home and bring the good spirits in.  Some also believe that this will ensure adequate bread for the coming year.


Germany


On New Year's Eve, Germans feast on fish - specifically a dish of carp or herring - with carrots and cabbage, in order to bring financial stability in the new year.  Some even put a few fish scales in their wallet to ensure prosperity.


Brazil

Brazilians will be found wearing white on New Year's Eve to secure their good fortune for the year ahead.  They also make it a point to throw gifts, such as flowers and candles, into the ocean so as to appease, Iemanja, the Goddess of the Sea.  It is believed that if your offerings return to you, she is not pleased by them and your wish will not be granted.  Ah well, there's always the next year!


Philippines


Like most countries, the Philippines celebrates a number of traditions on New Year's Eve.  One tradition in particular, requires opening all of the doors and windows in one's home on the eve of the new year.  This is done to allow negative energy out and good energy in.


Worldwide


Although each country may have their specific, unique traditions, one custom that is common throughout the world is, toasting the new year at midnight.  The name of this practice, "toast," first originated in the 17th century, when pieces of spiced, toasted bread were added to drinks to enhance their flavour. 




Hope you enjoyed these fun, cultural facts!  Which ones will you be practicing on December 31st?


Best wishes for a safe and healthy New Year!

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