You eat the 12 grapes right at midnight on New Year’s Eve, one grape for each chime of the clock, to symbolize good luck for each of the 12 months of the coming year.

When exactly to eat them

  • Traditionally, you start as the clock strikes 12 on New Year’s Eve (the transition from December 31 to January 1).
  • You eat one grape per chime (12 chimes = 12 grapes) and try to finish them all before the first minute of the new year is over.
  • Each grape is meant to represent one month of the upcoming year and is tied to wishes for luck, prosperity, and good vibes.

Fun modern twists you might be seeing

  • The “under the table” version (often for love or relationships) is a recent social-media trend, not part of the original Spanish custom.
  • Some people combine it with other New Year rituals (like wearing certain colors) to “customize” their luck, but these details vary a lot by country, family, and forum/online communities.

If you just want to follow the classic tradition, aim for: midnight, 12 chimes, 12 grapes, all within that first minute of the new year.