New Year’s Eve is often seen as a symbolic fresh start — a moment to let go of past struggles, welcome hope, and step into new possibilities. As poet T.S. Eliot once wrote, “For last year’s words belong to last year’s language, and next year’s words await another voice.” Reflecting this spirit of renewal, a quirky yet meaningful New Year ritual has gone viral on social media: eating 12 green grapes under a table at midnight to attract love, luck, and prosperity in the coming year.
Across platforms, several women have shared videos claiming they followed this ritual last New Year and later found meaningful relationships or positive changes in their lives. Encouraging others to try it for 2026, the trend has quickly captured global attention. While it may look like a modern internet challenge, the practice actually has deep cultural roots in Spain.
Where the tradition comes from
The custom is called “Las Doce Uvas de la Suerte,” meaning The Twelve Grapes of Luck. It dates back to late-19th-century Spain, particularly Madrid. Every year on December 31, as the clock at Puerta del Sol strikes midnight, families and friends gather to eat one grape with each of the 12 chimes — symbolising the 12 months of the year.
The tradition is believed to have gained popularity when grape growers in regions like Alicante and La Rioja faced an unusually large harvest in the late 1800s. To avoid waste and boost sales, farmers promoted the idea of eating grapes on New Year’s Eve, drawing inspiration from similar European customs. What began as a clever marketing move soon turned into a national ritual.
What the 12 grapes are believed to mean
Each grape represents one month of the upcoming year. Finishing all 12 on time is thought to invite good fortune, health, love, and financial abundance. According to popular belief, failing to eat all the grapes before the final chime may signal minor obstacles or delays during the year. Over time, the practice evolved into a light-hearted yet meaningful tradition followed by millions.
The viral twist: under-the-table manifestation
Social media has now added a playful modern layer to the centuries-old ritual. In the viral version, participants sit or crouch under a table while eating the 12 grapes, believing it amplifies secrecy, intention, and manifestation power. Many also whisper their wishes or relationship goals while eating each grape, associating every bite with a specific month.
As New Year’s Eve approaches, this blend of tradition, symbolism, and online creativity continues to fascinate people worldwide. Whether followed for fun, faith, or curiosity, the 12-grape ritual reflects humanity’s timeless desire to welcome the future with hope and optimism.