Yum But Why?

New Year's Food Traditions Around the WorldRing in the new year with delicious traditions from across the globe! In this episode, we explore why people eat special foods on New Year's Day—from Hoppin' John and collard greens in the American South to 12 grapes at midnight in Spain, from long noodles in Japan to tamales in Mexico.Discover the deep cultural meanings behind these foods: round foods for prosperity, long foods for longevity, green foods for wealth, and forward-moving foods for progress. Learn about Indigenous winter solstice celebrations and first foods ceremonies, and why grape farmers may have accidentally created a national custom in Spain.Perfect for families who want to understand the beautiful ways food connects us to culture, history, and hope for the year ahead. Plus: foods to avoid (no backward-moving lobsters!), fun facts, and ideas for creating your own family fusion feast.Challenge: Pick ONE tradition from this episode and try it next year!Episode length: ~25 minutes Perfect for: Ages 5+ and families Topics: Cultural traditions, food history, New Year's celebrations, Black American history, Indigenous traditions, global cuisinesFind us on Instagram: @yumbutwhy Email us: yumbutwhy@gmail.com