Personal experience
I was quickly pushed under the table, and someone handed me a bunch of grapes while shouting at me to hurry, the clock was nearing twelve. They covered me with a sheet and said, ‘Twelve grapes, don’t forget.’ The laughter and screaming were loud, I didn’t laugh or scream, I was trying to breathe after being under the table and covered with a sheet. I took a grape and put it in my mouth while thinking about why everyone had become so foolish to this extent!
Suddenly, the countdown began: ten, nine, eight… one, zero. The sound of explosions erupted, and everyone quickly emerged from under the table. I was the last to crawl out, finally entering the atmosphere of the lively celebration. I asked, “What’s happening?” One of the women then inquired if I had made a wish when I took the grape. I replied, “Yes, I wished to remove the tablecloth from over me and get out from under the table.” Everyone burst into laughter and said, “Good luck next year!”
All of that happened on New Year’s Eve last year when I accepted an invitation to celebrate with my Spanish friends. I didn’t know that they had special rituals to welcome the new year, which involved making twelve wishes, and with each wish, you had to eat a grape. It was somewhat strange, but I enjoyed it and learned something new about Spanish culture.
I wish everyone a sweet new year like grapes, I love you all.
