LIFE
Round fruits for good luck all year round
The last day of the year usually has families busying themselves preparing for the start of another year.
From cleaning homes to cooking specific food, one tradition stands out among the rest as it is placed at the center of dining tables — having 12 round fruits arranged as a centerpiece.
According to explanations passed down by elders, the 12 fruits represent the 12 months that families will face in the coming year.
The shape, however, carries another meaning. The roundness of each fruit is reminiscent of a coin, which is believed to bring financial success and wealth in the new year.
Additionally, the circular form is also thought to symbolize completeness, ensuring continuous good fortune all year round.
Here is a list of fruits usually found together at the centerpiece of many families’ New Year dining tables:
Grapes — One of the most sought-after fruits during New Year celebrations. Grapes qualify as round fruits and are also linked to another tradition involving eating them under the table for good luck.
Apple — Represents peace and harmony.
Watermelon — Its many seeds symbolize fertility and growth.
Kiwi — Because of its color, it is associated with money and vitality.
Mangosteen — Believed to symbolize happiness and sweetness in life.
Melon — Its bright flesh is thought to bring a bright future.
Plum — Associated with sweetness, good health, and fortune.
Lanzones — Said to attract good fortune while warding off bad luck.
Pear — Symbolizes good health and longevity.
Pomelo — Often linked to good health and family unity.
Lychee — Associated with happiness, prosperity, close family ties, and romance.
Dalandan — These green, circular oranges symbolize prosperity, good luck, and wealth.
Aside from displaying them on the table, some families opt for a more practical approach by juicing the fruits, serving as a natural cleanser after days of Christmas and New Year feasting and celebrations.