THE New Year’s Eve in Spain you live to the rhythm of twelve bells and its consequence twelve grapesone for each month of the year, the one that says goodbye and the new one that enters. All this symbolizes wishes of luck and prosperity for the … following 365 days, according to a custom that became popular at the beginning of the 20th century – according to different theories – after exceptional harvests and the sale of the so-called “lucky grapes”, until becoming a ritual in the homes of our countrywith Madrid’s Puerta del Sol as its iconic setting.
Today, millions of people follow this gesture midnight on the 31stwhether in front of the television or live at the carillon, as a little collective challenge which marks the end of the year.
In Italy and several South American countries eat lentils just after midnightbecause its shape is reminiscent of coins and is associated with economic prosperity. In for example Greece Vassilopita cake is baked with a coin hidden inside; Whoever gets it will have a year of luck.
In Denmark It is common to break plates at the door of friends and family as a sign of affection and good wishes, and many jump out of a chair at midnight to suddenly “enter” the new year. In Japanthe temples ring 108 bells to purify earthly desires, while in Philippines Polka dot prints are worn and round fruits are served to attract wealth.
The “almost superhuman ability” of the Spaniards
There are many ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve and just as many ways to attract attention. Those who visit us as tourists or to live in Spain for a while might be surprised by some of the Christmas traditions that exist on our borders. In this context Uruguayan content creator Emiliana Artagaveytiaresiding in Valencia, talks about it in one of his latest publications on digital platforms. Something that she herself defines as “an almost superhuman ability” of the Spaniards.
“The Spaniards have particular abilities and we can see one of the most surprising at the end of the year: the ability to eat 12 grapes in 12 seconds”he comments between two laughs. “I tried it and almost got stiff. One hasn’t finished entering and now you have to bring the other in, there like your cousin”, he emphasizes in the recording, which warns that this is not a reason for offense, but for humor.
This is one of the biggest challenges immigrants face.
The young woman explains that the moment takes place “to the rhythm of the bells”, a true national choreography: “The craziest thing about all of this is that they do several things at the same time while they eat the grapes, talk to each other, make jokes, dance… all at the same time.” He was even surprised to see that TV presenters also follow the tradition live: “They do the same thing and they talk without drowning”.
“East one of the biggest challenges facing immigrants», indicates the young woman about the grape tradition. “It’s another sign that the Spanish are not afraid of anything,” he says gracefully, but not before finishing by emphasizing that “one of the things I love most about Spain is the parties.”
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