New year grape tradition

by Trudy
(Torremolinos)

Hello

I am new to Spain and some Spanish friends have invited me to eat grapes for New Year´s Eve. Could you explain this tradition?
Thank you.
Trudy

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Dec 15, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		The twelve grapes of New Year´s Eve
by: Marbella Family

Eating twelve grapes at midnight on New Year´s Eve is a tradition dating from the beginning of the twentieth century. It is followed by nearly every Spaniard.

At midnight on New Year´s Eve, friends and family gather around the TV with twelve grapes in hand (even in restaurants and public places). The channel is set to the broadcast from the Puerta del Sol tower clock in Madrid.

Everybody is supposed to eat a grape for each chime of the clock during the countdown to the New Year. After having eaten the grapes, people usually kiss, hug and toast to the New Year with a glass of Champagne or Cava.

It is a very enjoyable tradition that we have adopted in our family for many years. Have fun with your friends and be careful not to choke on the grapes (it is not easy keeping pace with the chimes)!

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