Champagne, parties, fattening food…there are a lot of things we associate with New Year’s Eve. But if you’d like to try something new—and you like throwing stuff—here are some fun traditions to consider:
Tired of your dishes? In Denmark, people grab their ugliest plates and bowls, then skulk around on New Year’s Eve throwing them at the front doors of their friends. Apparently, the person who wakes up the next day with the biggest mess on their porch “wins.”
Need incentive to clean your house? In Ireland, they celebrate New Year’s Eve by throwing bread against their walls. In Switzerland, they throw ice cream on the floor. Lots of guests coming? Grab a shop vac.
Just watched the Hoarders? In Johannesburg, they celebrate New Year’s Eve by throwing things they no longer want out of apartment windows. Couches, dressers, stoves…if it’s no longer useful, it’s airborne December 31.
Wondering how strong your heart is? In Siberia, they ring in the new year by cutting holes in the ice so they can drop trees into the lake. I should note that these brave people don’t actually let go of the trees—they jump into the freezing water while hanging onto the trunks.
I’ve been mulling this over, and I’ve decided that throwing things is too much work (and mess) for me. So I’m going to celebrate like they do in Estonia. Traditionally, Estonians eat seven to 12 meals on New Year’s Day. The more frequently they eat, the more plentiful food will be in the new year. I know you’re all hoping 2018 will be a prosperous year, so I’m going to take one for the team and eat 12 meals on January 1st. You’re welcome.
Thank you Brenda, we’re all counting on you. Merry Christmas!
I’ll do my best, Colleen 🙂