A popular tradition on December 31 is browsing memes on social media while awaiting New Year 2026. These satirical jokes address family situations and expectations for the new year, such as hoping 'God finds better warriors'. Various Mexican and global customs mark the transition to 2026.
On December 31, many people in Mexico gather in the living room to view memes on social media, an unofficial custom that cheers the wait for midnight bells. These memes, now a trend, joke about dressing elegantly just to dine with family or foresee 2026's challenges, with phrases like 'let's see if God finds better warriors'.
Among traditions to attract good fortune, wearing specific colored clothing stands out: yellow or gold for money, white for peace and clarity, red for love and passion, green for health and personal growth, and blue for tranquility and balance. Another common practice is preparing a suitcase and leaving home as the bells ring, aiming to manifest travels throughout the year.
The habit of eating 12 grapes in sync with the chimes originated in Spain over a century ago as mockery of the elite celebrating with champagne and grapes, according to National Geographic. On platforms like TikTok, hiding under the table has gone viral to strengthen romantic relationships or find a partner, often with humorous videos about one's sentimental status.
In Mexican culture, sweeping the home's entrance during the chimes seeks to remove bad vibes and old conflicts from the previous year, or draw in financial prosperity. Viral memes from late 2025 compare traditional dinners, like torito, to everyday realities and life's 'blows', providing laughs to bid farewell to the old year and share with loved ones.
