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What Is the New Year Tradition of Eating Twelve Grapes in Spain?

Discover Spain's unique New Year tradition of eating twelve grapes at midnight for luck and prosperity.

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Video transcript

In Spain to celebrate the New Year, it's traditional to eat twelve grapes at midnight—one for each chime of the clock. This custom, known as “Las Doce Uvas de la Suerte” (The Twelve Grapes of Luck), is believed to bring prosperity and luck for the upcoming year.

Questions and answers

  1. Why do people in Spain eat twelve grapes at midnight on New Year?

    Eating twelve grapes at midnight, called Las Doce Uvas de la Suerte, is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for each month of the upcoming year.

  2. How did the tradition of eating grapes for New Year start in Spain?

    The tradition began in the early 20th century as a way to celebrate the New Year with good fortune, turning grape-eating into a symbolic ritual.

  3. Are there other New Year customs in Spain besides eating grapes?

    Yes, Spaniards also celebrate with fireworks, parties, and wearing red underwear for good luck during the New Year's festivities.

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