Whenever I discover a new custom or tradition while traveling, I am filled with joy. And my joy is even greater when I can participate in the tradition myself.
Las Doce Uvas de la Suerte: Twelve Grapes of Luck
An interesting New Year’s Eve tradition in Spain is eating twelve grapes during the last twelve seconds of the year. With each chime of the clock, you eat one grape. According to this tradition, each grape represents a wish for one of the months in the coming year, while also bidding farewell to the current year. It’s a beautiful symbolic act that unites the whole of Spain at one moment.
Grapes are a fruit associated with abundance and luck. In Spanish stores before New Year’s Eve, you can even find special packs of grapes containing exactly twelve grapes. Fulfilling this tradition isn’t exactly easy. You have only 12 seconds to eat all 12 grapes in time with the chimes of the clock. It’s not an easy task, especially after an evening full of Spanish food and drinks, often the finest Spanish cava.
The History of Eating Twelve Grapes in Spain
The history of this tradition dates back to the 19th century. In 1895, Spanish winemakers experienced a surplus of grapes and sought a way to use them effectively. The idea of eating grapes at midnight on New Year’s Eve quickly caught on and became an integral part of celebrations across the country. Grapes are most often eaten at home with family members or publicly in large squares.
🇪🇸 Tip: After a great Spanish food, make sure to experience some authentic Spanish flamenco. I attended a performance at Las Carboneras tablao flamenco in Madrid, which I highly recommend. However, performances are available all over Spain, and you can buy tickets in advance online.
I experienced this wonderful tradition in Malaga. The rooftops of houses were full of people celebrating together. But before midnight, most were eagerly awaiting the chimes of the clock and preparing their plates of grapes. In the final seconds of the old year, most people fell silent, each person focusing on their wishes and reflecting on the past year as they ate the grapes.
So, I wish you health and happiness in the coming year!
🇪🇸 Tip: If you are traveling to Madrid, I recommend a tour of the Real Madrid stadium for football fans (I enjoyed it even though I prefer hockey 😉). A visit to the Prado Museum or the Royal Palace is also excellent. Be sure to buy tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line.
