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Bizarre Colombian New Year Traditions You Won’t Believe

Published:

by Lianne Pegram

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Have you ever wondered how people in Colombia celebrate New Year’s Eve? You might be surprised by some of their unique traditions. From carrying an empty suitcase around the block to ensure a year full of travel, to burning a life-sized doll called "Año Viejo" to say goodbye to the past year, these customs are anything but ordinary. Another quirky tradition involves eating 12 grapes at midnight, one for each month, to bring good luck. Colombians also wear yellow underwear for prosperity. These bizarre Colombian New Year traditions make the celebration unforgettable and full of fun. Ready to learn more?

Burning the Old Year Away

In Colombia, New Year's Eve isn't just about fireworks and parties. One of the most fascinating traditions involves creating a life-sized doll called "Año Viejo" (Old Year). This doll represents the past year, filled with all its misfortunes and bad memories. As midnight approaches, Colombians set the doll on fire, symbolizing a fresh start for the new year.

  1. Año Viejo Dolls: These dolls are often stuffed with old clothes, newspaper, and sometimes even fireworks. Families gather around to watch the burning, sharing stories and laughter as the old year goes up in flames.

Eating 12 Grapes at Midnight

Another quirky tradition involves grapes. As the clock strikes midnight, Colombians eat 12 grapes, one for each stroke of the clock. Each grape represents a wish or resolution for the coming year.

  1. Grape Wishes: Families and friends gather with bowls of grapes, ready to make their wishes. It's a race against time to eat all 12 before the final stroke of midnight, adding a fun and frantic element to the celebration.

Running with Suitcases

For those dreaming of travel in the new year, there's a special tradition. Colombians believe that running around the block with a suitcase will bring travel opportunities in the coming year.

  1. Suitcase Dash: As soon as the new year begins, people grab their suitcases and run around their neighborhood. It's a hilarious sight, with everyone hoping their sprint will lead to exciting adventures.

Wearing Yellow Underwear

Color plays a significant role in Colombian New Year traditions. Wearing yellow underwear is believed to bring good luck and prosperity.

  1. Lucky Yellow: Stores stock up on yellow underwear in the weeks leading up to New Year's Eve. People believe that donning this bright color will attract positive energy and financial success.

Sweeping the House

To ensure a clean start, Colombians sweep their houses thoroughly before the new year. This act symbolizes getting rid of any negative energy or bad luck lingering from the past year.

  1. House Cleaning: Families take this tradition seriously, making sure every corner of their home is spotless. It's a way to welcome the new year with a clean slate, both literally and metaphorically.

Lentils for Prosperity

Lentils are another symbol of good fortune in Colombia. On New Year's Eve, people carry lentils in their pockets or scatter them around their homes to attract wealth and abundance.

  1. Lentil Luck: Some even cook lentil dishes as part of their New Year's Eve feast. The tiny legumes are believed to bring big financial rewards in the coming year.

Coins in Hand

Holding coins at midnight is a common practice aimed at ensuring financial prosperity. Colombians believe that clutching coins as the new year begins will attract wealth.

  1. Coin Clutch: As the countdown starts, people make sure they have coins in their hands. It's a simple yet powerful gesture, symbolizing the hope for a prosperous year ahead.

Embracing Colombian New Year Traditions

Colombian New Year traditions are truly unique. From burning effigies to carrying suitcases around the block, these customs are both fascinating and fun. They reflect the vibrant culture and deep-rooted beliefs of the Colombian people. Participating in these traditions offers a glimpse into their way of welcoming the new year with hope and positivity.

Whether you’re in Colombia or celebrating elsewhere, trying out these traditions can add a special touch to your festivities. Imagine eating 12 grapes at midnight for good luck or sweeping your house to get rid of bad vibes. These quirky customs might just bring a smile to your face and a bit of extra joy to your celebration.

So, next New Year’s Eve, why not give some of these Colombian traditions a try? You might find a new favorite way to ring in the year.