In Denmark's New Year's Eve tradition, what household items are famously thrown at friends' doors?

In Denmark's New Year's Eve tradition, old plates and glasses are famously thrown at friends' doors.

The custom involves saving unwanted crockery and smashing it against the doors of friends or neighbors at New Year. A large pile of broken dishes outside a home has traditionally been interpreted as evidence that the household has many loyal friends willing to visit and celebrate.

The practice is associated with social bonds rather than hostility. The objects are generally old or unused dishes, not valuable tableware, and the tradition is less universal today than it once was. Modern celebrations may adapt the idea because of safety, noise, and cleanup concerns.

Danish New Year's Eve also includes a midnight speech by the monarch, a televised tradition, and the eating of kransekage, a ring-shaped almond cake. These customs are separate from the plate-smashing ritual but often appear in the same holiday celebrations.