If you are looking ring in 2026 with good spirits and even better intentions, you may have welcomed the 12 grapes into the New Year's tradition that's currently making the rounds on TikTok. Snack, but make it meaningful.
So, why do people make a big deal about eating 12 grapes on New Year's Eve? It's actually a Spanish ritual that dates back hundreds of years and is also popular in Latin American cultures, but the New Year's practice of eating grapes at every gong before the clock strikes midnight has become something of a viral movement on the Internet.
Called the “grape theory” by some, TikTokers swear that eating grapes on New Year's Eve is the secret to finding love in the coming year. countless videos We share the novels that followed last year's New Year.
Why do people eat 12 grapes on New Year's Eve?
tradition It is believed to be hundreds of years old and originates from the Spanish culture. Known as “uvas de la suerte” (or “lucky grapes”), the Spanish, as well as people in parts of Latin America and the Caribbean, typically eat a grape at each of the 12 clock chimes before midnight on New Year's Eve to welcome the new year and bring Good luck.
Many people eat grapes at big celebrations in Spanish squares or watch reports on TV and eat each grape at the same time as the clock strikes (one for each month of the year), making a wish for each of them.
TikTok users claim the “grape theory” will bring romance and love to those who do it, with many claiming to have met a new partner in the new year after the ritual.
Where did the 12 grapes tradition come from?
It is difficult to say exactly when this Spanish tradition began, but according to one source, sourceThe first mention of the tradition dates back to 1895. At that time, grapes were considered a delicacy. However, the tradition was soon reportedly adopted by less wealthy people as a way to make fun of the upper classes.
Is it necessary to eat grapes under the table?
There are many variations of this tradition. explored on TikTokSome claim that you must be under the table to eat the grapes, while others claim that you must wear red underwear during the ritual (another Spanish tradition that brings good luck and good fortune). Most agree that this is not necessary, and that grapes are a core part of the tradition.
What time should you eat 12 grapes on New Year's Eve?
Okay, this is important. Tradition calls for eating a grape every time the clock chimes until midnight – so yes, that means eating one grape every second the clock starts striking. At 11:59, when the countdown begins and midnight approaches, that's when you need a snack. They say that to earn your luck, you need to eat grapes before midnight, so it is very important to chew them at lightning speed.
