In the Republic of Moldova, the winter holidays are marked by a series of customs and superstitions that reflect the cultural richness and spirituality of the Moldovans. Being passed down from generation to generation, the New Year's Eve customs bring good luck and prosperity to Moldovans' homes in the new year as well, IPN reports.
The Goat Game - abundance, fertility and luck in new year
The Goat or Bear Game is specific to the New Year and symbolizes abundance, fertility and luck. Tradition says that the participants play roles, such as the Goat or the Bear, dance and sing, being accompanied by drums and whistles. Thus, the homes are blessed with wishes for health and prosperity in the coming year.
New Year's Eve meal - symbol of abundance
Among the most important traditions is the preparation of the New Year's Eve meal, which must be abundant and diversified. The Moldovans believe that a rich meal brings prosperity and luck. Husewives prepare traditional dishes - cabbage rolls, meat jelly, homemade sausage, cheese pies. Obviously, Moldovan wine is in a place of honor on the menu.
It is said that fish dishes should not be missing from the table on New Year's Eve because fish is considered a symbol of continuity. At the same time, housewives avoid cooking poultry dishes so as not to "scare" luck away.
Onions at window to find out what the weather will be like in new year
On New Year's Eve, the Moldovans also have the custom of leaving 12 onion layers on the windowsill, which symbolize the 12 months of the year. They put a little salt on each layer and arrange it just like the numbers on the clock. Thus, the next day, they can find out what the weather will be like in the new year. If salt melted and water appeared, it will be a rainy month. If they layer remained dry, it will be a droughty month.
New Year's superstitions
New Year's Eve superstitions are rooted in the mentality of the Moldovans. It is said that the first person to enter the house after midnight must be a man, for good luck in the house. It is also good to have money in the pocket when the new year starts so as to attract financial prosperity.
Another superstition is to have new red clothes. New clothes bring prosperity, and red color - love and passion. Also, the Moldovans have the habit of opening doors and windows at midnight, to let the old year go and invite luck into the house.
The passing down of customs from generation to generation contributes to the preservation of the cultural identity of the people. Thus, New Year's Eve is not just a simple holiday, but is a good time to celebrate the values. The Moldovans welcome the new year with the belief that traditions will protect them and bring them joy.
