Undoubtedly, there are a million ways to celebrate the start of the year. You can kick things off with a New Year resolution, reflect on the previous year’s accomplishments or even throw a kick-ass New Year party with your friends and loved ones. One of our favourite things to do on New Year’s is to EAT!

And we are not alone.

As we bid farewell to 2023, why not embark on a flavorful adventure from around the world? Eating New Year’s good luck foods is something that is done all over the world. This month, Orbis Travels will be your guide to unlocking the secrets of New Year’s Day food traditions around the world.

Prepare to savor diverse and delectable cultural delights as we usher in the new year. So, fasten your seatbelts (or apron strings) as we take you on a gastronomic expedition to ring in the New Year with a feast that knows no boundaries.

Spain - 12 Grapes

In Spain, the countdown to midnight is accompanied by a unique trial - eating 12 grapes. Each grape represents a month of the coming year, and as the clock strikes 12, Spaniards consume these grapes, believing they bring good luck and prosperity. This tradition is also prevalent in parts of Mexico as well.

Japan - Osechi Ryori’s Symbolic Feast

In Japan, the New Year is a time for Osechi Ryori, a meticulously prepared assortment of traditional foods with symbolic meanings. Every dish from sweet black beans for health to shrimp for longevity tells a tale of hope and good fortune for the upcoming year.

Ireland - Irish Bannock

Derived from the Gaelic word “bannach,” meaning morsel, bannock holds a special place in Irish culinary heritage. While its New Year’s Eve role as a banisher of bad luck is quirky and endearing, the real magic lies in its preparation.

The Irish have a New Year’s tradition of banging the house walls with bread to chase away bad luck or evil spirits. Whether or not you choose to use it for this purpose, bannock is a tasty and traditional Irish bread made with the addition of dried currants.

Italy - Lentils and Cotechino

Italians ring in the New Year with a feast centered around lentils and Cotechino, a hearty pork sausage. The round lentils resemble coins, symbolising wealth and prosperity, while the sausage represents the richness of life.

United States - Black-Eyed Peas and Greens

In the southern United States, a New Year’s table is incomplete without black-eyed peas and greens. The peas symbolise good luck, while the greens represent money and financial prosperity, creating a deliciously symbolic start of the year.

Denmark - Kransekage and Sweet Beginnings

The Danes indulge in Kransekage, a marzipan cake composed of concentric rings. Shared with loved ones alongside champagne, this sweet treat signifies sweetness and good fortune in the coming year.

Philippines - Round Fruits for a Bountiful Year

Filipinos celebrate with a vibrant display of round fruits on New Year’s Eve. Each fruit symbolizes abundance and prosperity, creating a visually appealing and meaningful tradition.

As we come together to celebrate, let us savour not just the flavours on our plates but also the shared hopes and aspirations for a brighter, more joyful year ahead.

Think you want to celebrate 2024 with a bowl of fruits with Filipinos or a marzipan cake with the Danes? Orbis Travels can plan a memorable New Year getaway for you! Dial 0208 051 0956 or 0800 640 9992 to book your New Year holiday package today.

Greece - Vasilopita and Hidden Surprise

In Greece, the New Year is welcomed with Vasilopita, a special cake named after St. Basil. Tradition. This New Year’s recipe dictates that a coin is hidden inside, and whoever discovers it is destined for good luck throughout the year.

Germany - Marzipan Pigs and Luck on a Plate

Marzipan pigs are a very popular New Year’s tradition in Germany. Germans enjoy Marzipanschwein, small marzipan pigs, as a New Year’s treat. These sweet delights symbolize good luck and prosperity, embodying hope for a fortunate year ahead.

Brazil - Lentils and Pomegranate Seeds

Brazilians believe in lentils for luck, similar to Italy, and also scatter pomegranate seeds around their homes to invite prosperity and abundance into the New Year.

Wishing You a Delicious Happy New Year

From the simplicity of 12 grapes to the elaborate symbolism of Osechi Ryori, these diverse New Year’s food traditions reflect the rich cultural tapestry of our global community. As we come together to celebrate, let us savour not just the flavours on our plates but also the shared hopes and aspirations for a brighter, more joyful year ahead.

Wishing you a Happy New Year filled with love, laughter and delicious traditions from around the world. Book with Orbis Travels and get some exciting New Year vacation deals today. Dial 0208 051 0956 / 0800 640 9992 to book your tour today.

FAQs

• What is traditional food for New Year's Day?
  Scotland has a rich tradition of celebrating Hogmanay, the Scottish term for New Year's Eve. The celebrations often spill into New Year's Day, and a popular dish during this time is "Haggis," a savory pudding containing sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices, and salt, mixed with stock. It is traditionally served with neeps and tatties (mashed turnips and potatoes).
  
• What is a traditional New Year's dish?
  While not exclusive to New Year's Day, a hearty Full English Breakfast might be a comforting and substantial meal to start the day. It typically includes bacon, eggs, sausages, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding, and toast.
  
• What are traditional meals for the New Year?
  In Wales, traditional Welsh Cakes might be enjoyed. These are small, griddled cakes made with flour, currants or raisins, and sometimes spices. They are often served with a sugar dusting and are a delightful sweet treat for the day.