Twelve grape day
December 31, Wednesday
Origin of the tradition
The tradition dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. There are several versions of its origin:
* imitation of the customs of the Spanish nobility, who welcomed the New Year with wine and grapes
* the “grape harvest crisis” of the early 20th century, when farmers promoted the idea of eating grapes on New Year’s Eve
* the establishment of the custom after mass celebrations in Madrid at the clock on Puerta del Sol square
Over time, the custom became an integral part of New Year’s Eve in Spain.
Meaning and symbolism
Each of the twelve grapes symbolizes one month of the year. It is believed that:
* if you manage to eat all the grapes within the twelve chimes of the clock, the year will be lucky
* a sweet grape promises joy in the corresponding month
* a sour one foretells possible difficulties
The main idea is to attract happiness, health, and well-being.
How the ritual is performed
Usually it happens like this:
* people gather at a festive table or in city squares
* twelve grapes per person are prepared in advance
* with the first chime of the clock, they start eating one grape at a time
* with each chime, they make a wish or mentally name a month
* after the last chime, they congratulate each other on the New Year
In Spain, millions of people follow the chimes on television.
Where the tradition is observed
The custom is widespread not only in Spain but also in other countries:
* Mexico
* Venezuela
* Colombia
* Peru
* Chile
* Ecuador
* in the Philippines
As well as among Spanish-speaking communities around the world.
Modern features
Today the tradition adapts to the rhythm of life:
* ready-made packs with twelve grapes are sold
* the grapes are peeled and deseeded for convenience
* sometimes raisins or small cherry tomatoes are used
* people share videos of the New Year ritual on social networks
But the symbolism remains the same.
Interesting facts
* In Spanish, the tradition is called Las doce uvas de la suerte, that is, “the twelve grapes of luck”.
* The chimes at Puerta del Sol in Madrid are broadcast across the country.
* For many, this is more important than fireworks and toasts.
* The custom has become a cultural symbol of the Spanish New Year.
The meaning of the tradition today
Day of the Twelve Grapes is an unofficial but beloved custom that brings families and friends together, creates an atmosphere of expecting a miracle, and helps start the year with a smile and hope.
Twelve grape day in other years
- 2021 December 31, Friday
- 2022 December 31, Saturday
- 2023 December 31, Sunday
- 2024 December 31, Tuesday
- 2026 December 31, Thursday