For many Ecuadorians, New Year’s Eve (Nochevieja) is more than just a celebration—it’s a deep-rooted tradition steeped in symbolism, history, and community. Growing up in Ecuador, I had the privilege of witnessing these traditions firsthand, and even now, as I reflect on them, they continue to fill me with nostalgia and a sense of belonging.

One of the most iconic customs is the “Año Viejo” or “Old Year” effigy. This tradition involves the creation of life-sized dolls made of straw, old clothes, and fireworks. These effigies are meticulously crafted to represent the past year—often personifying the struggles, challenges, or even humor that characterized it. As midnight approaches, families and friends gather in the streets, where the effigies are set ablaze in a symbolic gesture of letting go of the old year and welcoming the new one with open arms.

As a child, I remember eagerly participating in the crafting of these effigies. My family and neighbors would gather together, collecting discarded clothing, old newspapers, and anything else that could bring our “Año Viejo” to life. The dolls, which could resemble anything from famous figures to everyday people, would take on a life of their own, becoming a canvas for creativity and shared laughter. At midnight, the countdown would begin, and with a collective cheer, we would light the fuse and watch as our creations burned, signifying the end of the past year and the promise of a fresh start.

 

But the “Año Viejo” tradition is just one facet of Ecuador’s rich New Year’s Eve celebrations. Another tradition that fills the air with anticipation is the “12 grapes at midnight” ritual. At the stroke of midnight, it is customary to eat 12 grapes, each one representing a wish or hope for the upcoming year. The challenge is to eat them all before the clock finishes chiming, and each grape should be eaten in time with each chime, making it a race against time. As I’ve done this with my family over the years, it has become a lighthearted yet meaningful way to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the future.

Yet, the most cherished part of New Year’s Eve in Ecuador is the family gatherings. It is a time when extended families come together to share a meal, tell stories, and simply enjoy each other’s company. The table is always abundant with delicious dishes—empanadas, cuy (guinea pig), and a variety of tropical fruits. The food is not just sustenance; it’s a symbol of the warmth and togetherness that fills our homes during this time.

Whether simple or elaborate, these dummies are set ablaze at midnight, offering a powerful and symbolic farewell to the challenges of the past. The fire is more than just a spectacle—it’s an emotional release. Some people cry as they watch their viejo burn, others kick it or jump over its ashes, symbolizing resilience and renewal.

I remember one particular New Year’s Eve that stands out in my mind. It was the last time I celebrated with my extended family in Ecuador before moving to the United States. My parents, aunts, uncles, and cousins gathered at our home in Guayaquil. We sang traditional villancicos (Christmas carols) as the clock struck midnight, our voices rising in unison.

I was surrounded by the familiar faces of those I loved most, and despite the sadness that came with knowing this would be my last celebration there for a while, the warmth of the moment made it unforgettable. I held my cousins close, and together we counted down the seconds, eager for the year ahead.

As the years have passed, I’ve carried these traditions with me. While I may now be thousands of miles away from Ecuador, I still set up an Año Viejo effigy, gather with friends and family, and savor the taste of 12 grapes. In a way, these traditions have become a bridge between my past and present, connecting me to my roots no matter where I am.

New Year’s Eve in Ecuador is a celebration of hope, resilience, and renewal. It’s a moment to pause, reflect on the lessons learned, and let go of the old in order to make room for the new. For me, it’s a reminder that no matter how far we travel, the traditions that shape us remain in our hearts, guiding us through each new year.

Cábalas: Grapes. Running on the Block

Here are some of the most beloved cábalas in Ecuador:

To Attract Wealth:

• Keep cash in your pockets before midnight.
• Place a dollar bill under your left foot to “step into” prosperity.

To Invite Good Luck:

• Wear yellow underwear for positive energy and success.
• Eat 12 grapes, one for each chime at midnight, making a wish with each one.

To Inspire Travel:

• Grab an empty suitcase and dash around the block at midnight to manifest new adventures.

A Wish for the New Year

As the flames dance into the night sky, we welcome the new year with open hearts. May your year ahead be filled with love, health, prosperity, and unforgettable adventures.

¡Feliz Año Nuevo!