Round fruit and long noodles – the Filipino way
Growing up in the southern part of the Philippines, in an expatriate community of the Dole pineapple-producing plantation, shaped how I understand family and celebration.
Across the Philippines, New Year traditions are rich with symbolism. Even as adults, many of us continue to observe them - not out of superstition alone, but because they connect us to home, memory, and one another. These are the traditions I grew up with, shared by Filipino families nationwide:
Media Noche (Midnight Feast): The New Year begins around the table. Media Noche is a celebration of abundance, with food laid out generously to invite prosperity.
Twelve Round Fruits: Round or near-round fruits represent good fortune for each of the 12 months ahead.
Noodles for Long Life: Pancit (stir-fried noodles) or spaghetti are served to symbolise long life and good health.
Wearing Polka Dots: Circular patterns are believed to attract money and positive energy.
Coins in Our Pockets: At midnight, we jingle coins to welcome financial blessings.
Jumping at Midnight: Children jump as high as they can, believing it will help them grow taller in the year ahead.
Opening Doors and Windows: Homes are opened to let blessings, fresh energy, and good luck enter.
No Sweeping or Cleaning: Cleaning on New Year’s Day is avoided so good fortune is not swept away.
Sweet and Sticky Foods: Sticky rice cakes and sweet desserts symbolise family unity and the hope for a sweet year ahead.
Making Noise at midnight: This is one of the most joyful Filipino New Year traditions.
Loud sounds are believed to drive away bad spirits, misfortune, and lingering negativity from the past year.
As the clock strikes twelve, families blow horns, play music, and cheer together. Some tie empty cans behind tricycles or cars and drive through the neighbourhood, while others light tiny watusi firecrackers and sparklers, filling the night with sound, movement, and light.
In contrast, some indigenous communities mark the New Year more quietly, focusing on family, prayer, and reflection - highlighting the Philippines’ cultural and religious diversity.
In Kalsangi, a private international village, I welcomed the New Year surrounded by friends from America, Costa Rica, Thailand, and Korea, where Filipino traditions met global influences through food, dancing, laughter, a joyful countdown, and fireworks lighting up the sky.
Wherever Filipinos may be in the world, these traditions continue to connect us to home. For me, they remain a reminder that the New Year is not only something we celebrate, but something we consciously welcome - with gratitude, courage, and belief in better days ahead.
* written by Vanda Brady