Top 5 Filipino New Year's Traditions

Growing up in the Philippines, my husband and I developed certain traditions before the New Year.

1. 12 or 13 Rounded Fruits The most common tradition for Filipinos is to prepare 12 or 13 different fruits in a basket. Twelve represents each month of the year. The fruits should be rounded in shape, like apples, oranges, grapes, plums, and melon among others. The belief is they will bring prosperity for the new year to come.

2. Wearing Polka Dots. I remember my sister-in-law would always wear her polka dotted shirt on New Year's eve. She believes it will bring wealth in the coming year.

3. Jumping up and down when the clock strikes 12 midnight. This action is supposedly help you to grow taller. We would often do this when we were still in grade school.

4. Making Noises such as fireworks or noise maker (torotot). This will drive bad spirits or bad vibes away.

5. Dangle coins or fill your pocket with coins to attract wealth.

Whatever your beliefs or traditions are, make 2020 an amazing year by being kind, mindful and the change you want to be.