New Year's Day in Peru

Date: January 1st

History and Significance: New Year's Day in Peru, as in many countries around the world, marks the beginning of the new calendar year. It is a public holiday celebrated with much enthusiasm following traditions that blend indigenous customs with those brought by the Spanish during colonization.

Traditions:

• Yellow Underwear: Peruvians often wear yellow underwear on this day as it is believed to bring good luck for the upcoming year.
• 12 Grapes: At midnight, people eat 12 grapes, one at a time, making a wish with each grape to represent good fortune for each month of the new year.
• Doll Burning: In some parts of Peru, effigies or dolls representing the old year are burned to symbolize leaving behind the past and starting anew.
• Travel Rituals: To attract opportunities for travel in the new year, some Peruvians might walk around their block or carry suitcases.
• Money Rituals: It is common to hold a coin or bill during the New Year countdown for prosperity.

Celebrations:

• Fireworks Display: Fireworks are popular and light up the night sky at midnight as part of celebrations throughout cities and towns.
• Parties and Gatherings: Families and friends gather together for parties that often last until dawn. They involve dancing, music, and feasting on traditional foods such as turkey or pork, lentils (symbolizing abundance), and Panettone (Italian-style fruitcake).
• Public Concerts and Events: In major cities like Lima, free concerts and public events are organized.

New Year's Day in Peru reflects a rich tapestry of cultural practices aiming to usher in a prosperous and happy new year.