Europe is a continent that combines the rich culture and diversity. In fact, there are customs and traditions that a lot of European countries are known for. These include some of the most interesting New Year traditions and fascinating activities in different regions.
Curious? Below are some of the New Year traditions in Europe that you probably didn’t’t know about.
Interesting New Year Traditions in Europe
1. Ireland: Chase Bad Luck Away
There are lots of unique superstitions that remain as part of Ireland’s traditions, Some of these are prominent come New Year’s eve. As with other countries who want to stay away from bad luck as the new year enters, Ireland has its ways too. One of those is the use of Christmas bread to bang on the walls and doors of a house as they believe that it can keep bad luck out and let the good spirits in.
2. Denmark: Valued Friends
It is a blessing to be surrounded by good friends who’ll stay by your side. Danes have a unique way of celebrating friendship on New Year’s eve. The smashing of old plates is a tradition in Denmark that won’t get people hunting you. In fact, the more old plates thrown at a particular house, the better. This means that you have a lot of friends who value you.
3. Scotland: Whiskey and Lump Coal
‘Hogmanay’ refers to New Year’s eve in Scotland. It marks the passage between the past and the coming year and is regarded as an essential tradition that impacts one’s fortune for the whole year. It is believed that the first person to set foot at home is considered very important. He or she must bring gifts like whiskey and lump coal to bring good fortune for the new year.
4. Spain: 12 Grapes
There is a ritual in Spain which brings crowds together at the main city square. This is done to celebrate ‘the old night’. People stare at the clock and wait for the first strike of its bells. Once it strikes, they eat twelve grapes for good luck and then shout “¡Feliz Año Nuevo!”.
5. Finland: Melted Tin
As with many New Year traditions in Europe and most parts of the world, Finnish are particular about setting their path in the right direction for the coming year. The tradition of pouring melted tin into a bucket of cold water is popular in their country. The shape produced from the melted tin is believed to forecast one’s fortune for the year.
6. Estonia: Unfinished Meal
If you happen to be invited to a New Year’s eve dinner in Estonia and noticed that they have unfinished meals, this is normal. In fact, it is deliberately done. Usually, they prepare a certain number of meals depending on lucky numbers such as 7, 9 and 12 for good fortune. Aside from that, they also don’t finish their meals completely. This is a gesture of respect to the spirits of those who already passed away.
ALSO READ: 12 TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS COOKIES TO TRY WHEN IN EUROPE
Certainly, there are interesting New Year traditions in Europe that may leave you in awe and even influence you. The rich culture and diversity in Europe are just some of the reasons why a lot of people are attracted to explore this destination.
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