HAPPY NEW YEAR
1. Red underwear
Countries that celebrate: Italy, Spain, Turkey, Argentina
You might have to hit Victoria’s Secret if you want to observe this tradition. As the legend goes, wearing red underwear to ring in the New Year will lead to love and prosperity for the next 12 months.
2. Bear costumes
Country that celebrates: Romania
People in Romania suit up to hail another January 1st — but not for playing football like we see in the U.S. Instead they wear bear costumes, which are said to ward off evil in the coming year.
3.Suitcase walking
Countries that celebrate: Ecuador, Colombia
Want to travel? Some South Americans have the answer. According to tradition, walking an empty suitcase around the block is their way to ensure a travel-filled new year. The faster you go, the more you travel.
4. 12 grapes
Country that celebrates: Spain
At midnight, many Spaniards will have grapes ready. As an old tradition goes, popping 12 grapes in time with each strike of the clock during the New Year’s Eve countdown will bring a fortuitous 2016. Easy to observe, hard to pull off!
5. Underwater trees
Country that celebrates: Siberia
In honor of the New Year, deep-sea divers in Siberia cut a hole in the ice of Lake Baikal, swim to the bottom and plant a tree. Although interesting and cool, don’t try this one yourself — only professionals observe this custom.
2 J Underground 