8 Lucky New Year's Foods From Around the World

In Greece, New Year’s Day corresponds with the feast day of St. Basil. Many families celebrate with a cake called Vasilopita, which translates to “Sweet Bread of Basil.” At midnight on December 31, the head of the household etches a cross onto the top of the cake with a knife and says a prayer. The cake is then cut and distributed to family members from oldest to youngest. In some traditions, the first pieces are set aside for Christ, the House, the Poor, or St. Basil. A coin is baked into the cake, and whoever gets the piece with the coin will have extra good luck. Visit My Greek Dish for more information and a recipe for Vasilopita.

Happy New Year in Greek: Eutychismenos o kainourgios chromos!