The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

GERMAN CUSTOM

A TRADITIONAL NEW YEAR'S EVE SUPPPER IN THIS GERMAN FAMILY
IS HERRINGS AND ROE. ANYONE WHO HAPPENS TO DROP IN ON
THAT EVENING HAS TO PARTAKE OF THESE DISHES OR THEY WILL
HAVE BAD LUCK FOR THE NEXT YEAR. THE PLATTER IS PASSED
AROUND AND WHILE THE OLDER MEMBERS OF THE FAMILY TAKE
GENEROUS PORTIONS, THE YOUNGER ONES MERELY TAKE ENOUGH
TO PARTAKE IN THE TRADITION, WHICH IS SAID TO GUARANTEE
GOOD LUCK AND PARTICULARLY PROSPERITY FOR THE COMING YEAR.

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; ROSEVILLE

Subject headings:

686 Thirds / Thrice / Three / Triple
CUSTOM FESTIVAL -- December 31 New Year's Eve
Food Drink -- Typical menus for the various meals For meal hours, see F574.84. Special or festive meals
Food Drink -- Typical menus for the various meals For meal hours, see F574.84. Special or festive meals
BELIEF -- Good luck
BELIEF -- Good luck
BELIEF -- Bad luck

Date learned: 00-00-1967