Colombian New Year Traditions

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Colombians have many different traditions (some of which are closer to superstitions) that are performed customarily at midnight on New Year's Eve. Each tradition has its own purpose and you cannot do them all; so, you'll have to choose your favorites.
Here is a list of a few traditions you can try in your home:


1. Twelve grapes
As the clock strikes 12 you need to start eating the grapes. Each grape represents one month of the upcoming year, and you are allowed to make a wish with each grape. But you have to finish eating all twelve grapes before 12:01 in order for your wishes to come true. So, have your wish list ready and eat quickly :).



2. Yellow Underwear
If you want to win the lottery next year or at least guarantee yourself riches, try wearing yellow underwear as the clock strikes 12. If you want to double your chances, wear the underwear backwards.



3. Shafts of Wheat
Make sure to place 12 shafts of wheat on your dining room table. This will ensure a year with plenty to eat.



4. The Suitcase
At precisely 12 o'clock, grab your suitcase and run around the entire block with it as fast as you can. When you have completed your journey, you increase your chances of taking a big trip in the upcoming year. So, for you people with itchy feet, forget the grapes and grab the suitcase.



5. Starting Out on the Right Foot
As the clock strikes midnight, make sure your first step is made with your right foot. This will start out the year on the "right foot."



6. Money in Hand or in Pocket
Make sure to have at least $1 in your pocket or in your hand as the clock strikes 12. It foretells a year of financial security. Remember, cash only -- for everything else there is Mastercard.



7. Sweep the Dirt Out the Door
Your house should be cleaned on the 31st and you sweep the last bit of dirt out the front door at midnight. This cleanses your home and brings good energy to your home.



8. Eat Lentils (Check link to recipe from two days ago)
At any time on the 31st of December, eat lentils. It portents a year of plenty.



9. Burn your Año Viejo
This helps you get rid of all your bad luck and mistakes from the previous year.



Make sure that you hug and kiss everyone in your house and wish them Feliz Año.



Happy New Year! Feliz Año Nuevo!


The Colombian Mommy

Comments

Nicole said…
Fun:) Thanks for posting!
~Nicole
January 1, 2011 at 8:50 AM
Lily said…
This is so cool. I wonderif I can do them all at once. :)
December 14, 2012 at 6:33 PM
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