2017 is just around the corner and the Germans have their own way of entering the New Year. Some traditions are very similar to the ones in other European countries, but others are unique. We are about to find out the superstitions that they believe will bring luck during the New Year.
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IMAGE CREDITS: JRCLARKE
In Germany, the New Year’s Eve is also known as “Silvester” because it is also the day St. Sylvester passed away, in the year 335. St. Sylvester was a Catholic Pope who is known for baptizing Constantine the Roman Emperor and curing leprosy. His deeds are also a reason to celebrate.
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As well as almost all over the world, in Germany, the year turns under fireworks. The biggest and most notable firework show is in Berlin, the capital city. In the pre-medieval era, the Germans used to make loud sounds to ward off evil spirits right before the New Year started and the fireworks are just an extension of this tradition. Besides the sound of the fireworks, you can also hear the bells of the churches stroking midnight.
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The last ten seconds of the year are spent toasting the “proseco” glasses and wishing good luck to the people around shouting “Prost Neujahr!”. Another tradition in Germany is to share lucky charms with the loved ones.
IMAGE CREDITS: EVERHEAR
There is also a whole set of rules for what to eat on the New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. For example, Sauerkraut and lentils are said to attract wealth and good fortune while poultry dishes are avoided because it will bring unhappiness during the coming year. People also give each other pigs made out of marzipan because they are believed to attract good luck.
IMAGE CREDITS: COCOPARISIENNE
Many people still spend this festivity together with their families, but there are a lot of people, especially the younger ones, that go out to bars, restaurants, nightclubs or festivals. The biggest New Year’s celebration in Germany is at the Brandenburg Gate, where thousands meet to welcome the New Year.
IMAGE CREDITS: NPR
Also very common on New Year’s Eve is to predict how the next year will be and the Germans have a very interesting way of doing it. It is called “bleigieβen” and consists of melting small pieces of lead and pouring them into a bowl of water. The predictions are made based on the shapes the metal takes while solidifying.
IMAGE CREDITS: GERMANY TRAVEL
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