New Year 2024: Unique superstitions from around the world

As the clock strikes midnight and fireworks light up the sky, new year's eve is a time of celebration and reflection globally. However, various cultures around the world have unique superstitions and traditions to usher in good luck and ward off negativity. From throwing things out of windows to eating specific foods, here's a glimpse into new year superstitions observed across different corners of the world.

Spain: Grapes of good fortune

In Spain, the stroke of midnight is marked by the tradition of eating twelve grapes—one for each chime of the clock. Each grape is believed to symbolise good luck for each month of the coming year. Successfully consuming all twelve grapes in time is thought to bring prosperity and ward off misfortune.

Brazil: White attire for peace

In Brazil, it is customary to wear white on new year's eve to usher in peace and tranquillity for the upcoming year. Many Brazilians also offer flowers and small boats filled with offerings to Iemanja, the goddess of the sea, to bring good fortune.

Denmark: Jumping into the new year

In Denmark, it's a common New Year tradition to leap off a chair at the stroke of midnight. This symbolic act is believed to banish negative spirits and bring good luck for the coming year. The higher the jump, the greater the luck.

Philippines: Round shapes for prosperity

In the Philippines, round shapes are associated with prosperity. Many households display round fruits and serve round-shaped food to symbolise coins and wealth. Additionally, wearing polka dots is thought to bring good fortune and money in the coming year.

Italy: Throwing out the old

In some Italian communities, it is customary to throw old possessions out of windows on new year's eve. This act is believed to symbolise letting go of the past and making space for the new. However, this tradition has faced criticism for safety and cleanliness concerns in recent years.