As the final hours of the year approach, people around the world are preparing to mark the occasion with traditions and rituals.
Among these is a tradition with old roots and a new wave of popularity—eating 12 grapes at midnight.
Known as the 12-Grape Theory, the custom promises good fortune for the coming year, but what is it, and should you try it this New Year’s Eve?
Where Did the 12 Grapes of Luck Theory Come From?
The origins of the 12-grape ritual trace back to late 19th-century Spain, where it is said vineyard owners encouraged the practice to off-load an abundant harvest.
Over time, the tradition gained cultural significance, and many started copying it in the hopes of a prosperous year ahead. Today, it is still a popular custom across Spain and Latin America.
@the2ndnoel2
I guess the grapes worked a little too well ?
? we broke up lol – gatchi
What Is the 12 Grapes on New Year’s Trend?
The tradition involves eating one grape for each chime of the clock at midnight—often while underneath a table for extra luck. Each grape is thought to represent a month of the year to come, making the ritual both a playful challenge and a moment of reflection.
For many, the act of eating 12 grapes goes beyond mere superstition. Some even believe that eating the grapes gives you an idea of what the year will bring. Sweet grapes are said to predict months of joy and success, while sour grapes serve as a warning of potential obstacles.
A picture of a bunch of green grapes, left; and a picture of New Year’s Eve celebrations in Times Square in New York City. One must eat one grape for each chime of the clock…
A picture of a bunch of green grapes, left; and a picture of New Year’s Eve celebrations in Times Square in New York City. One must eat one grape for each chime of the clock at midnight.
Ryan Rahman/Getty Images
Beyond its folkloric roots, the tradition has found a fresh audience on TikTok where people have shared videos of them racing to eat grapes in videos with millions of views.
Many have shared their successes, cutting from clips of them consuming grapes, to shots of them enjoying a great year. Others have asked: “What do I tell my family when I crawl under the table to eat a load of grapes?”
@raab.angie
?? one of the best suprises this year
? we broke up lol – gatchi
Other Bizarre New Year’s Superstitions
Eating 12 grapes at midnight isn’t the only tradition or superstition that people take part in at New Year’s Eve. Here are some other unusual and notable customs.
Hitting Bread Against Walls: This Irish tradition involves banging a loaf of bread against walls on New Year’s Eve. It is said to ward off evil spirits and invite good luck into the home.
Kissing at Midnight: Perhaps the most commonly practiced tradition, kissing a loved one at midnight is believed to ensure that love and affection will last all year.
Not Doing Laundry on New Year’s Day: In some cultures, washing clothes on January 1 is thought to wash away good luck.
Wearing Certain Underwear Colors: The color of underwear worn on New Year’s Eve is believed to influence various aspects of life in the upcoming year. For example, red is associated with love and passion, while white represents purity and new beginnings.
Jumping Over Waves: In Brazil, people often dress in white and jump over seven waves after midnight, making a wish with each one. This tradition honors Iemanjá, the goddess of the sea?.
What Is the 12 Grapes Trend? New Year’s Eve Tradition Explained
