Latino New Year’s Eve traditions focus on symbolism and good fortune

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Many Latino families celebrate New Year’s Eve with traditions that emphasize symbolism and superstitions, with activities beginning after midnight.

One common tradition involves sweeping from inside the house to outside, symbolizing the removal of negative energy from the home. Another practice includes throwing spare change from outside into the house, a gesture believed to bring good fortune.

For those hoping to travel, families often take a suitcase and run outside the house to foreshadow future journeys. Some families take a short trip to the end of the driveway, while others run farther, depending on their travel goals.

Also, while many in the United States count down from 10 seconds, there are some variations. For example, Mexicans and Colombians often count down from 12. During each second, participants eat one grape and make a wish for each month of the new year.

Wishes often focus on good health, love, prosperity or career success, ushering in the new year with optimism.