Why do we celebrate New Year? An analysis of our traditions
The New Year is a date that marks a before and after in our lives. But have you ever wondered why we celebrate this new year with so much joy and anticipation?
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The origin of a thousand-year-old tradition
The celebration of the New Year has ancestral roots linked to natural cycles such as seasons and crops. In ancient times, our ancestors marked the beginning of a new cycle as an opportunity to renew energy and give thanks for what they have received.
Does anything really change from one year to the next?
Even though the calendar changes and age increases, human beings remain the same. However, the New Year gives us a moment to reflect on the year that is ending, identify our achievements and learnings, and set new goals for the future. It is a kind of symbolic reset that pushes us to be better versions of ourselves.
Ecuadorian traditions to welcome the New Year
In Ecuador, New Year celebrations are a mix of ancient customs and modern influences. Some of the most popular traditions include:
- The twelve grapes: It is customary to eat twelve grapes to the rhythm of the chimes at midnight, each one representing a month of the new year.
- Colored underwear: It is believed that wearing yellow underwear attracts money, while red underwear symbolizes love.
- The suitcases: Walking around the block with an empty suitcase represents the desire to travel during the year.
- The puppets: In some regions, straw and cardboard figures filled with rockets are built and burned at midnight to symbolize the elimination of negativity.
- New Year's Eve dinner: Families gather together to share a special dinner, which usually includes typical dishes such as turkey, rice pudding and colada morada.
The New Year is much more than just a date on the calendar. It is an opportunity to renew our hopes, strengthen our emotional bonds and build a better future. Although traditions may vary, the desire for a new beginning is universal.
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What traditions do you celebrate on New Year's Eve? Share your experiences in the comments!
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