8 Filipino New Years Traditions You'll See Across the Philippines
- halohalohq
- 4 days ago
- 1 min read
Happy New Year! If you think New Year's is just fireworks and a countdown, Filipinos take it a step further.
In the Philippines, welcoming the New Year is all about hope, abundance, and family -- celebrated through food, fun superstitions, and joyful traditions passed down through generations. From midnight feasts to round fruits, loud celebrations, and playful rituals, each tradition is meant to invite good luck, good health, and a brighter year ahead.
Whether you have your own New Year traditions at home or these Filipino traditions are new to you, they offer a beautiful glimpse into Filipino culture -- one filled with warmth, optimism, and togetherness.
Here are 8 Filipino New Year traditions you'll often see across the Philippines and in Filipino homes around the world:
Media Noche (Midnight Feast)
Families welcome the New Year with a big feast at midnight, symbolizing togetherness and abundance.
Round Fruits for Prosperity
Twelve (or more) round fruits are displayed to represent coins and financial luck.
Wearing Polka Dots or Circular Patterns
Clothing with circles is believed to attract wealth in the coming year.
Loud Noises at Midnight
Fireworks, horns, and music are used to scare away bad luck and evil spirits.
Jumping at Midnight (Especially Kids!)
Children jump as the clock strikes 12, hoping to grow taller in the New Year.
Coins in Pockets
Some Filipinos keep coins in their pockets and jingle them at midnight to invite wealth.
Opening Doors and Windows
Homes are opened at midnight to let good luck and positive energy flow in.
Serving Pancit for Long Life
Noodles are eaten to symbolize longevity and good health.
