Ah, Italians and superstitions—name a more iconic duo. From tossing salt to ward off bad vibes to carefully avoiding Friday the 17th (yes, the 17th, not 13th!), Italians have a long history of blending charm, tradition, and just a dash of paranoia. But when it comes to the holiday season, these superstitions get an extra sprinkle of magic. So grab a bowl of lentils, and let’s dive into the quirky ways Italians ensure a lucky New Year!
1. Lentils: The Currency of the Future
If you think lentils are just for health nuts, think again. In Italy, lentils symbolize money—each little legume represents a coin. On New Year’s Eve, Italians serve up Cotechino e Lenticchie (a sausage and lentil dish) to guarantee prosperity in the year ahead.
Pro Tip: The more lentils you eat, the richer you’ll be. So, channel your inner billionaire and pile up that plate.
2. Red Underwear: A Fashion Statement for Fortune
Yes, you read that right. Red underwear is a New Year’s Eve must in Italy. Wearing red is said to bring love, passion, and luck for the coming year. Just make sure you toss them after the festivities—they’re a one-night-only kind of charm.
Pro Tip: Skip the designer briefs. Nobody said your lucky undies have to be expensive. The magic is in the color, not the brand.
3. Smashing Plates in Sicily
Some Sicilians ring in the New Year by smashing plates. The louder the crash, the more bad luck you shatter.
Pro Tip: Make sure it’s your own dishware. Neighbors don’t consider it lucky when their plates are involved.
4. Sweep Away the Bad Juju
Before the clock strikes midnight, Italians make sure their homes are spotless. Sweeping the house isn’t just about cleanliness—it’s about metaphorically sweeping out bad luck to make room for good vibes.
Pro Tip: If you’re too tired to clean, just wave the broom around. The spirits won’t know the difference.
5. Throwing Things Out the Window
In some southern Italian towns, the phrase “out with the old, in with the new” gets taken literally. On New Year’s Eve, it’s tradition to toss unwanted items—sometimes even furniture—out the window to make room for good fortune.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting Naples, avoid walking under balconies unless you want a free lamp.
6. Grapes: One for Each Month
Eating 12 grapes at midnight—one for each stroke of the clock—is a sweet way to invite good fortune for all 12 months of the year. But be warned: skipping a grape could doom your March or October.
Pro Tip: Try not to choke while speed-eating grapes. It’s bad luck to start the year with a trip to the ER.
7. Circle Shapes for Success
Round foods like panettone, oranges, and cakes are big players on the New Year’s table. Why? Because circles represent continuity and endless opportunities.
Pro Tip: Resist the urge to cut the panettone into triangles. The superstition police are watching.
8. Beware of Bad Omens
During the holidays, Italians are extra careful about avoiding bad omens. Dropping a knife? Someone’s angry with you. Spilling olive oil? Oof, prepare for a bad financial year.
Pro Tip: If you drop a knife, throw some salt over your shoulder to balance things out. And if you spill oil… well, just cry into your lentils.
9. Midnight Kisses and Fireworks
Italians believe starting the year with love (via a kiss) and driving away evil spirits (via loud fireworks) is essential for a prosperous year. So, pucker up and embrace the pyrotechnics!
Pro Tip: If you’re single, kiss a random friend—preferably one who doesn’t mind garlic breath from the lentils.
9. Lucky New Year Toasts
Italians love a good toast, and on New Year’s Eve, it’s all about sparkling wine. But beware: crossing arms while clinking glasses or toasting with water is a big no-no.
Pro Tip: Keep the prosecco flowing and your toasts upright. Cheers to a drama-free 2024!
Whether you’re diving into a plate of lentils or nervously avoiding spilled oil, Italian holiday superstitions offer a playful way to enter the New Year with hope and laughter. So, embrace the quirks, don your lucky red underwear, and remember: it’s all about keeping the spirits happy—and yourself, well-fed!
Buon Anno! 🎉
