“Hope smiles from the threshold of the year to come, whispering, ‘It will be happier.’” ― Alfred Lord Tennyson

The eve of 2019 has inspired us to explore food traditions from around the world that are said to bring prosperity and luck to all those who partake on New Year’s Day.

Soba noodles bid goodbye to a year gone by and welcome the new year that is just beginning: Japan

Hoppin’ John, with African and West Indian roots, brings good luck and prosperity: American South

Cotechino con Lenticchie is eaten for wealth and good fortune: Italy

Las doce uvas de la suerte (the 12 lucky grapes), eaten during the twelve strokes of midnight, promise good luck in the new year: Spain

Kuku Sabzi is said to bring abundance and fertility: Iran

Pancakes, foie gras, and champagne are eaten during le Réveillon de Saint-Sylvestre feast for good luck: France

In Alabama: “The New Year Trinity” on the Journal