[Unfiltered and Unscripted] Guide to a Colombian New Year's
Guide to Fun, Chaos, and a Dash of Yellow (and Why I Have to Warn My Neighbors)
Hola -
I know things have been heavy.
With politics feeling overwhelming and the anxiety about what the upcoming administration might bring, it’s easy to feel stuck in the weight of it all.
That’s why I wanted to share this with you—not just to sprinkle in some joy, but to create connections. Whether you try one of these rituals, invent your own, or simply enjoy learning about a new culture, my hope is that this post inspires you to embrace something fun, meaningful, and maybe even start a new tradition with your loved ones.
This newsletter isn’t just about U.S. politics. It’s called Latino Lens because I want to share my perspective on the world—sometimes on big issues, and sometimes on the lighter, more personal stuff. And since we just had Thanksgiving, a holiday I didn’t grow up with or celebrate, I thought it might be a good idea to bring you into my favorite holiday traditions.
So… let me just say that whenever I tell my American friends that New Year’s is my favorite holiday, I get the look. You know the one—raised eyebrows, slight confusion, and maybe even a touch of pity. “But it’s just watching the ball drop and Mariah Carey singing,” they say.
Oh, my sweet friends, let me introduce you to the beautiful chaos of a Colombian New Year's celebration.
New Year's is a time when tradition meets joy, and I have to preemptively explain to my neighbors why they'll see people running around with suitcases at midnight - and to PLEASE not call the police on me.
Yes, you read that right.
Let me walk you through what might be the most entertaining holiday prep list you'll ever need:
The Essential Prep List (That Will Make You Question My Sanity)
🩳 Yellow underwear - And not just any yellow underwear. It must be brand new, and if you're following my grandmother's wisdom (which I do, no questions asked), it should be worn inside out. Not like Superman—under your clothes! Why? Don't ask me; ask my abuela.
🍇 Twelve grapes - These aren't just for snacking—they're your ticket to twelve wishes at midnight.
Pro tip: Write your wishes down beforehand. Trying to think of twelve wishes while simultaneously stuffing grapes in your mouth is not the kind of multitasking anyone needs in their life.💵 Small bills - For exchanging with friends at midnight. My husband added his own twist: different currencies for international business prospects.
🧳 A suitcase - Empty is fine. This isn't about packing; it's about running around the block at midnight. Yes, really.
🌾 Grains and wheat - A tradition we borrowed from our Persian friends, decorating the table with these symbols of abundance and prosperity. Because who doesn't want a bountiful harvest in the year ahead?
The Midnight Choreography
Picture this: It's 11:59 PM. You're wearing your new yellow underwear (inside out, of course), your grapes are counted, your wishes are written down, and your empty suitcase is by the door.
The countdown begins, and then...
Chaos. Beautiful, joyful chaos.
First comes the kissing and hugging. 😘 🫂 (yes, this is a hug emoji)
Then, while trying not to choke, you're shoving grapes in your mouth one by one, making wishes.
Then comes the money exchange. Everyone pulls out their small bills, and a flurry of exchanges begins. It's like a tiny midnight stock market, but with laughter and hugs. The belief is that exchanging money ensures prosperity and successful negotiations in the coming year. (And yes, the money goes back to its original owners—we're manifesting wealth, not redistributing it!)
My husband's international currency twist has become a favorite addition. There's something magical about holding different currencies at midnight, imagining the international deals and travels they represent. It's like holding little pieces of possibility in your hands.
Then comes the grand finale: people taking their suitcases and running outside (this is where that neighbor warning comes in handy). Up and down streets, around blocks, or a cul-de-sac!
Oh, and if you want fewer tears in the coming year? Throw a glass of water outside. (Quick caveat: If you live where it freezes, be careful with this one. We don't need any New Year's ice-skating accidents.)
The whole spectacle lasts maybe 20 minutes, but it's pure magic. The kids stay up, everyone's laughing, and there's this beautiful moment of shared hope and joy for the year ahead.
So, while others might be watching the ball drop, we're running around with suitcases, our pockets filled with raw lentils (another thing I do because my grandmother said so), wearing yellow underwear inside out, and loving every minute of it.
Your Turn!
Want to join in the fun this year? Remember:
Start shopping for that yellow underwear now
Write down your 12 wishes ahead of time
Warn your neighbors (trust me on this one)
And most importantly, embrace the beautiful chaos
Which tradition are you most excited to try? Do you have any questions? let me know in the comments!
I'd love to hear which one made you smile the most.
P.S. If you see me running down the street with a suitcase at midnight, just know I'm manifesting some amazing travels for the new year. Feel free to join in!
This is wonderful. Thank you, Silvia!