What Happens at 12 00 Am on New Year’s Day in Madrid?

By Alice Nichols

New Year’s Eve is one of the most celebrated events in the world. People from different cultures and countries come together to welcome the new year with great enthusiasm and joy.

Madrid, the capital city of Spain, is also known for its lively New Year’s Eve celebrations. The people of Madrid have their unique way of welcoming the new year at 12 00 am, which is worth experiencing.

At 12 00 am on New Year’s Day, people in Madrid gather around the clock tower in Puerta del Sol, one of the busiest squares in the city. The clock tower is famous for its bell that rings twelve times at midnight to mark the beginning of a new year. The tradition of ringing bells on New Year’s Eve dates back to ancient times when it was believed that loud noises could ward off evil spirits.

As soon as the clock strikes twelve, people start eating twelve grapes, one by one, with each chime of the bell. This tradition is known as “Las doce uvas de la suerte” or “The Twelve Lucky Grapes”.

It is believed that eating twelve grapes at midnight brings good luck and prosperity for the coming year. It is an old Spanish custom that has been followed for more than a century.

The grapes used for this tradition are small and seedless, which makes them easy to swallow. They are sold in small packets across Madrid before New Year’s Eve. This tradition has become so popular that it is now broadcasted live on Spanish television channels every year.

Apart from eating grapes, people also celebrate New Year’s Day by partying all night long. Many bars and clubs stay open until dawn to allow people to celebrate freely without any time constraints. The streets are filled with confetti, fireworks, and music all night long.

In conclusion, celebrating New Year’s Day in Madrid at 12 00 am is a unique experience that should not be missed. From eating grapes to partying all night, Madrid has a lot to offer for a memorable New Year’s Eve celebration. So, if you ever get a chance to be in Madrid on New Year’s Eve, don’t miss the opportunity to witness this amazing tradition and have a blast with the locals.