Nita Vasadze – New Year’s Superstitions

Every Year on December 31st, when the clock hits 12, the new year starts. To welcome the new year people do different things that will start that year in the best way possible. The new year is the refreshing point, a chance to start things with a clear mindset and make the best out of it. Therefore, people have many traditions and superstitions regarding the new year and its celebration. This essay will explore these superstitions and the meaning behind them.

Some of the most famous New Year’s superstitions are eating twelve grapes at midnight, keeping extra cash in your wallet, getting a midnight kiss, not leaving the house until someone comes and etc. All of these superstitions have distinct meanings. For example, people kiss their loved ones as the clock strikes midnight because they believe that those sentiments will last for the next twelve months. The superstition of eating twelve grapes is from Spain and is meant to bring luck for the upcoming year. Keeping money in your wallet is a symbol of having this money throughout the next year and not struggling financially. Also for the same reason, many people believe that you should not loan out money on New Year’s Day or New Year’s Eve and should not start the year with any unpaid debts. Some people do not leave their houses and wait for someone from outside to enter their house first because this person is supposed to bring luck. In Georgia, they call this person “mekvle” and they have to walk into the house with their right foot and throw in candy, sometimes they even bring a gift. Furthermore, people try not to cry on New Year’s Day and maintain a cheerful mood because they think crying on New Year’s day sets a sad year. In my opinion, none of these things are real and they do not work but they make New Year’s Day more enjoyable and fun. 

Author: Nita Vasadze