In the Philippines, foods traditionally served for New Year’s Eve should be round to symbolize prosperity.
The custom is part of Media Noche, the midnight feast shared by Filipino families as the new year begins. Round fruits are especially prominent because their shape resembles coins. Families may display or serve twelve different round fruits, with the number twelve representing the months of the coming year.
Common examples include grapes, oranges, apples, melons, and other circular fruits. The practice is a form of folk symbolism rather than a religious requirement, and families vary in how strictly they follow the number or the particular foods.
The Filipino New Year also includes other customs intended to attract luck, such as making loud noises and wearing polka dots. The round-food tradition should not be confused with Spain’s twelve-grape countdown, although grapes may appear in both celebrations.