Welcoming the New Year, Filipino Style: A Nostalgic Celebration for Filipino-Kiwis
For Filipinos living in New Zealand, there is nothing quite like the festive traditions of their homeland, especially when it comes to ringing in the New Year. Whether planning to celebrate in true Pinoy fashion or sharing this vibrant culture with Kiwi friends, Filipino New Year traditions offer a unique and colourful way to welcome the year ahead.
The Feast: Medianoche and the Magic of Round Fruits
A Filipino New Year’s Eve is incomplete without the iconic medianoche (midnight) feast. Families gather around a table laden with dishes symbolising good fortune and prosperity.
The centrepiece is often a platter of 12 round fruits, representing the 12 months of the year. Round fruits like apples, grapes, and oranges—believed to attract wealth and abundance—are a must-have.
Sticky rice cakes such as biko and bibingka are also served, signifying strong family bonds. Pancit, a dish symbolising long life, is another staple on the table. And of course, a juicy, crispy lechon!
Polka Dots: A Fashion Statement for Good Luck
While many Kiwis opt for sparkly dresses or tuxedos during New Year celebrations, Filipinos embrace the power of polka dots. This playful pattern symbolizes coins and wealth. Whether it’s a dress, shirt, or even a scarf, wearing polka dots is believed to invite financial blessings in the coming year.
Making Noise: Banishing the Bad, Inviting the Good
Fireworks light up the skies, and the streets come alive with the sound of paputok (firecrackers) like Judas Belt and kwitis. For families who prefer a safer option, torotot (party horns), banging pots and pans, or even dragging empty cans do the trick. The goal is to scare away evil spirits and make room for good luck.
Jump for Growth: A Tradition for the Young and Young-at-Heart
As the clock strikes midnight, children—and sometimes adults—jump as high as they can, hoping to grow taller in the coming year. This lighthearted tradition is a favorite among kids and adds a playful touch to the midnight celebrations.
Doors Open, Lights On: Welcoming Blessings
In every Filipino home, lights are kept on, and doors—including cabinets and windows—are left open to welcome prosperity and good fortune. It’s a symbolic gesture of inviting positive energy into the household.
Clean Slate: Tidying Up for a Prosperous Year
In the days leading up to New Year’s, families give their homes a thorough cleaning. On New Year’s Day itself, however, sweeping or cleaning is avoided to prevent sweeping away the good luck that has just arrived. Wallets are filled with fresh bills to ensure a year of financial abundance.
A Pinoy Celebration in Aotearoa
Living in New Zealand does not mean leaving these traditions behind. This New Year, why not bring a slice of home to the celebration? Set up a platter of round fruits, prepare a pancit dish, or invite Kiwi friends to join in the fun of jumping at midnight.
Whether celebrating with family in New Zealand or sending love to those back home, these cherished traditions carry the spirit of the Filipino New Year.
Maligayang Bagong Taon!
