In Colombia, celebrants traditionally carry an empty suitcase around the block to symbolize travel in the coming year.
The custom is one of several Colombian New Year's rituals intended to attract desired experiences. A person who wants more journeys may walk around the neighborhood with an empty suitcase shortly after midnight or during the first moments of January 1. The suitcase represents trips waiting to be filled into the year ahead.
Colombian celebrations also include eating twelve grapes, making wishes, and burning Año Viejo figures. The figures represent the old year and may be created from clothing, paper, or other materials before being burned at midnight. Regional practices differ, so not every family follows every custom.
The suitcase ritual is symbolic rather than a forecast or official ceremony. It is sometimes described online as running around the block, but walking is also commonly reported. The key element is the empty suitcase, not a particular brand, color, or type of luggage.