New Year's Day

**New Year's Day in Mexico** New Year's Day, or *Año Nuevo*, is a vibrant and festive celebration in Mexico, marked by a mix of traditions, family gatherings, and cultural customs. Celebrated on January 1st, it is a public holiday where Mexicans welcome the new year with joy, hope, and reflection. Leading up to midnight on December 31st, families and friends come together for *Nochevieja* (New Year's Eve), often enjoying a late-night feast featuring traditional dishes like *bacalao* (salted cod), *pozole*, or *tamales*. At midnight, fireworks light up the sky, and people toast with champagne or *sidra* (sparkling cider). Mexicans also observe unique customs to attract good luck for the coming year. These include eating 12 grapes at midnight—one for each chime of the clock—while making a wish for each month ahead. Some wear colorful underwear (red for love, yellow for prosperity) or carry suitcases around the block to symbolize travel and adventure in the new year. On New Year's Day itself, many attend church services to give thanks and seek blessings. The day is often spent relaxing with family, enjoying leftovers, or participating in community events. Overall, New Year's Day in Mexico is a time of celebration, renewal, and optimism for the future.