Ring in 2025 with grapes: New Year's Eve tradition trends
In just a few hours, we'll welcome the year 2025. A popular tradition associated with this celebration in recent years is eating 12 grapes right as the clock strikes midnight. This ritual is believed to bring luck and prosperity, especially in love. But what are the origins of this tradition, and does it work?
Every culture has its customs and beliefs. Thanks to globalization and the widespread internet, we can explore traditions from different corners of the world and even adopt them ourselves. One example is the New Year's Eve tradition of eating 12 grapes. This practice has transcended its country of origin and has been embraced by millions online.
Grapes and their properties
Grapes are not only sweet and tasty but also healthy. They're full of vitamins A, C, E, K, and B vitamins. Besides, they contain minerals and antioxidants that combat free radicals, which are responsible for aging and the development of diseases. Grapes are also rich in fibre, which benefits the digestive system and keeps you feeling full longer.
Grapes in the kitchen
Grapes can be enjoyed as a standalone snack, but they're also great in various desserts and sweets. You can make a cake, jelly, mousse with them, jam, or juice. They also work well in savoury dishes, like accompanying a cheese platter or as part of a salad.
The beginnings of the 12 grapes custom
This tradition started in Spain at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. It gained popularity in 1909 following a grape surplus in Alicante. Winemakers, seeking to sell the excess, promoted the myth that eating 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight would bring luck and prosperity in the year ahead.
Today, this custom is practiced not only by Spaniards. Residents of Latin America also prepare glasses with the appropriate number of grapes each year. You have just one minute to eat them—not a second more! If you fail, it's said you risk a year of bad luck.
The 12 grapes trend on TikTok
Recently, this tradition has become very popular among TikTok users, especially the version that suggests eating 12 grapes under the table while wearing red underwear is supposed to bring success in love and increased fertility. Singles worldwide adopt this ritual, hoping to find their match.
As many social media videos show, this custom often appears to work. It's worth adding to your New Year's Eve party to see if the promises of happiness and love come true.
