New Year's Eve is Right Around the Corner!

December 31, 2023

New Year's Eve is Right Around the Corner

How We Celebrate in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

In countries worldwide, on New Year's Eve, you will find the typical tradition of "out with the old and in with the new." In most cases, the evenings are bright with fireworks and the idea of making good wishes for the New Year. It truly is a night to reflect on the year past and how you look forward to the New Year.

As in the rest of the world, in Mexico, we have some particular traditions that we celebrate for New Year's Eve, known as Nochevieja in Spanish. December 31st is where it begins.

You'll find that most Mexican families like to have a big dinner with the whole family, including Aunts, Uncles, dear friends, and anyone else who can visit. Bacalao is considered the most traditional of dishes for a Christmas or a New Year's Eve celebration and is generally served at least at one of these two meals.

Of course, we don't just eat on New Year's Eve; we also have many other ideas and traditional things for a fun evening that runs into January 1st. Here are a few ideas if you are looking to have your own new Holiday traditions.

The Suitcase

A Mexican tradition says that on New Year's Day, you should grab an empty suitcase, put some clothing inside it, and walk around the block with your bag full of clothes. The idea is that this will bring the possibility of good travels for the new year.

Sweeping Coins

Another intriguing New Year's Eve tradition in Mexico is to sweep coins for prosperity. The idea is to drop 12 coins outside your doorstep, grab your broom, and brush the cash back into the house. The concept behind returning the coins to the home is that it will bring economic growth and financial success for the new year.

12 Grapes for 12 Wishes

The most popular New Year's Eve tradition is eating 12 grapes in 60 seconds. Yes, this is a tradition that some people follow. However, it's essential to be cautious and alert if you choose this tradition. The grapes themselves represent the 12 months of the year. The rule says that if you eat all 12 grapes in 60 seconds, your 12 wishes will come true, and you will have good luck throughout the upcoming year.

However you decide to spend New Year's Eve this year, we wish you a happy, safe, and exciting New Year with your family and friends!