The arrival of a new year always brings with it an air of hope, joy and good wishes. In Spain, New Year’s festivities are full of traditions that mix fun with a touch of superstition, inviting us to start the year on the right foot.
The twelve lucky grapes
The best-known tradition is undoubtedly that of the twelve lucky grapes. At midnight on 31 December, millions of people all over the country gather in front of the television, or in iconic town squares such as the Puerta del Sol in Madrid, to eat a grape with each chime. This ritual promises to attract prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead.
A toast and gold in the glass
After the grapes, a toast with cava or champagne is an essential moment. Many people place a gold ring in the cup as a symbol of wealth and success in the coming months.
Red underwear
Do you know what underwear you will wear to see in the new year? In Spain, many people have already put away their underwear for the night. To attract love and luck, it’s traditional to wear red underwear on New Year’s Eve.
Family dinners and cotillions
The last dinner of the year is usually a hearty family feast that includes seafood, lamb, suckling pig and typical sweets such as nougat and polvorones (Spanish nut shortbread pieces). After the feast, many people attend parties or social dances held at hotels, restaurants and discotheques, where the festive atmosphere lasts until dawn.
Although New Year’s Day is an important celebration, in Spain Christmas isn’t over until Three Kings Day on 6 January. Waiting for presents and parades keeps the Christmas spirit alive during the first days of the year, especially among children.
A new beginning
The New Year not only marks the turn of the year in the calendar, but also a nice moment to reflect and make new resolutions. From travelling more — you can plan your 2025 getaways now with our offers — to spending more time with your family, these resolutions are part of the spirit that accompanies the holiday.
And how will you welcome 2025? Whatever your favourite tradition, we hope your year’s full of joy, love and new opportunities!