A Look at Lucky Traditions Worldwide
Here’s a look at some fascinating lucky traditions from around the world....
The Philippines
Displaying or eating 12 round fruits. In the Philippines, many families display or eat 12 round fruits on New Year’s Eve—such as grapes, apples, or plums—to symbolize prosperity in the coming year. The round shape represents coins, and having twelve fruits is believed to bring wealth and good fortune for each month ahead.
The Mediterranean/Middle East
The Nazar protects against the "evil eye".
In many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures, the Nazar, a blue eye-shaped amulet, is believed to protect against the “evil eye,” a curse thought to be caused by jealousy or ill intentions. People often wear it as jewelry or hang it in homes and businesses to ward off negative energy and bring protection and good luck
China: Wearing Red for Good Luck
In Chinese culture, the color red symbolizes happiness, prosperity, and protection from bad luck. During the Lunar New Year, red decorations are everywhere, from lanterns and banners to clothing and accessories.
Children often receive red envelopes filled with money, called hongbao, as a symbol of blessings and good fortune for the year ahead. Wearing red during celebrations is thought to attract positive energy and ward off negativity.
Ireland: Banging Christmas bread against walls to chase out evil spirits.
In Ireland, a traditional superstition involves banging Christmas bread against the walls and doors of the house to drive away evil spirits and invite good fortune for the coming year. The ritual was believed to cleanse the home and ensure protection, luck, and prosperity for the family.
Italy: Throwing Coins in Fountains
One of the most famous lucky traditions can be found in Rome at the Trevi Fountain. Visitors toss coins over their shoulder into the fountain while making a wish. According to tradition, throwing a coin ensures that you will one day return to Rome.
Millions of coins are tossed into the fountain each year, and the collected money is donated to charity, turning a hopeful wish into something that benefits others.
Denmark: Throwing old crockery at friends' houses.
While it may look messy, the growing pile of broken plates on your doorstep is actually a sign that you’re well loved; The more shards you have, the more friends wishing you good luck in the year ahead
Japan: Maneki Neko (the beckoning cat) is used to bring good fortune to businesses.
Often displayed in shop windows and businesses, the raised paw is believed to invite customers, wealth, and positive fortune inside.
Brazil: Jumping Over Waves
On New Year’s Eve in Brazil, many people head to the beach to welcome the new year. One popular tradition involves jumping over seven ocean waves while making wishes.
Each wave represents a different wish or intention for the year ahead—such as love, success, health, or happiness. The ritual is also connected to honoring the sea goddess Yemanjá, a symbol of protection and renewal in Brazilian culture.