Twelve Grapes

Origins and history

The custom dates back to at least 1895 but gained widespread popularity in 1909. Vine growers from Alicante promoted the practice to sell surplus grapes following a bountiful harvest. Originally, some believed eating the grapes could ward off evil spirits and witches. Today, it serves primarily as a festive ritual to celebrate the arrival of the New Year.

How it is kept

Participants gather either at home with family after dinner or in public squares. The most famous location is Puerta del Sol in Madrid, where the Royal House of the Post Office clock broadcasts the time change. People eat one grape with each of the twelve bell strikes. Television coverage began in 1962, making this a shared national experience across major media networks.

Spread around the world

The tradition extends beyond Spain to regions with strong Hispanic ties. It is observed in Latin American nations like Argentina, Mexico, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Uruguay, Venezuela, Costa Rica, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico. It also appears in the Philippines, Serbia, Brazil, Jamaica, and among Hispanic communities in the United States.

How Twelve Grapes is kept

People gather in groups, often at home or in town squares. They hold twelve grapes and eat one as each of the twelve midnight bells rings. This happens on New Year's Eve. In Madrid, crowds watch the broadcast from Puerta del Sol. The act is synchronized with the clock chimes to ensure timing matches the symbolic months ahead.

When and where

It occurs at midnight on 31 December, marking the transition into the new year. The date is fixed annually, aligning with the Gregorian calendar's end of the year.

It is strongest in Spain, particularly Madrid. It is also common in Latin America, the Philippines, and Hispanic communities globally. Public squares and private homes are typical venues.

What Twelve Grapes means

Each grape represents one month of the coming year. Eating them successfully brings good luck and prosperity. Historically, it was also thought to protect against evil influences, though modern focus remains on celebration and positive omens.

Who takes part

• The couple or family: Eat the grapes together during the bell strikes
• The broadcaster: Transmits the midnight chimes via television and radio

If you are a guest

Guests join in eating the grapes. They may bring their own grapes or receive them from hosts. Participation is key to sharing the luck. No specific attire is required, but festive clothing is common.

Then and now

The custom remains popular worldwide. It is less about superstition and more about communal celebration. Media coverage ensures its continued visibility and relevance across generations.

On the wedding table

• Grapes: One grape eaten per bell strike at midnight

Questions people ask about Twelve Grapes

See also

HuipilThe traditional tunic worn by indigenous women in Mexico and Central America for weddings and daily life.SevillanasA traditional Andalusian folk dance performed by couples at weddings and local festivals in Spain.MantillaA lace or silk veil worn over the head and shoulders by women in Spain and Latin AmericaCuecaA courtship dance from Chile and the Andes where couples trace circles with handkerchiefs to reenact a rooster and hen.

Good reading and sources

• Por qué se comen 12 uvas a la medianoche y el origen de otras tradiciones de Año Nuevo en América LatinaBBC, Article
• Por qué se comen 12 uvas a la medianoche y el origen de otras tradiciones de Año Nuevo en América LatinaBBC, Article

• Twelve Grapes on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Wedding customs differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-06.