Traditional New Year’s Foods in the US and Around the World

Culinary traditions vary from country to country and region to region, but a common theme is the intent to bring good luck, health, and fortune.
Traditional New Year’s Foods in the US and Around the World
Pork ribs baked with sauerkraut. TYNZA/Shutterstock
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When the clock strikes midnight and the calendar turns to 2026, many people around the world will celebrate the new year by consuming tradition-rich food.

From pork and sauerkraut, pickled herring, and lentil soup to black-eyed peas, tamales, and grapes, culinary traditions vary from country to country, and even region to region. They carry the same purpose of welcoming good health and fortune, and leaving behind troubles from the year that has passed.

Jeff Louderback
Jeff Louderback
Reporter
Jeff Louderback covers major news and politics, including the Make America Healthy Again movement and regenerative farming. Since joining The Epoch Times in 2022, he has covered national elections, the Robert F. Kennedy Jr. presidential campaign, the East Palestine train derailment, and the aftermath of Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina. Jeff has 30-plus years of professional experience as a reporter, editor, and author.