Major League Baseball announced that opening day in 2023 falls on March 30th, with 30 teams slated to play 15 games. Baseball players are athletic, clever, and—surprisingly—steeped in bizarre superstitions.

Why Bizarre Superstitions Were So Popular in the 19th Century

From the post‑Civil War boom to the professional era of the 1870s‑1905, players searched for any edge, often turning to odd rituals that today would raise eyebrows. Below are ten of the most outlandish practices recorded from that golden age.

10 Drinking Hot Turkey Gravy

In 1894 the Baltimore Orioles clinched the National League pennant by winning 24 of 25 games. Their lineup boasted six Hall of Famers, with every starter batting above .300 and five players driving in over 100 runs. Yet the team credited a far stranger habit for their luck: each player gulped a glass of hot turkey gravy before batting practice. The ritual had nothing to do with their on‑field dominance, but the Orioles also resorted to sneaky tactics—icing balls, spreading soap around the mound, and even skewing baselines to make bunts roll past the foul line.

9 The Evil Eye

William “Billy” Moffat Earle, a catcher who bounced among five clubs between 1889 and 1894, earned a reputation as much for his creepy demeanor as for his glove work. He claimed to be a hypnotist, and teammates whispered that his stare possessed an “evil eye.” In 1887 a Mississippi River boat crash left one of his companions dead; the survivor recalled Billy’s unsettling gaze as the tragedy unfolded. Publications even suggested he wielded magnetic powers, and the legend of his evil eye lingered long after his playing days ended.

8 Not Speaking to His Own Starting Pitcher

Cap Anson, a future Hall of Famer who spent 22 seasons with the Chicago White Stockings (later the Cubs), was notorious for his racist attitudes and alleged KKK ties. Beyond those controversies, Anson adhered to a peculiar pre‑game rule: he never spoke to his own starting pitcher. While most teammates chatted before a game, Anson kept his mouth shut whenever the pitcher was involved, a superstition whose origins remain a mystery.

7 Believing His Bats Had Individual Personalities

Louis Rogers “Pete” Browning, dubbed “The Louisville Slugger,” played outfield from 1882 to 1894, mainly with the Louisville Eclipse/Colonels. He was the first player to commission custom‑made bats, a practice still common today. Despite chronic deafness and frequent headaches, Browning took his bat obsession to another level: he gave each bat a name, spoke to it, and retired it after a brief spell, convinced each piece held a limited number of hits.

6 Putting Pebbles in His Back Pocket

Shortstop John Wesley “Jack” Glasscock, a dominant player from 1879 to 1895, earned the nickname “Pebbly Jack” because he collected tiny stones from the infield and tucked them into his back pocket. He believed the pebbles prevented bad hops, and indeed teammates who ignored the habit suffered more erratic grounders. Glasscock’s superstition may be the only one that offered a tangible performance boost.

5 Believing a Cross‑Eyed Woman Hexed a Game

John Joseph “Blackjack” Burdock, a second‑baseman who played over two decades, was famed for his fielding tricks and hidden‑ball maneuver. A June 1879 Chicago Tribune story recounts that Burdock spotted a cross‑eyed woman in a storefront window on his way to face the Cincinnati Reds. After his team lost, he blamed the loss on the woman’s hex, a superstition that lingered despite the article’s problematic language.

4 Never Proceeding from the Bench to Second Base

Bill “Bad Bill” Eagan, a rough‑mannered player known for suspensions and late‑night bottle‑throwing, adopted a quirky routing rule. He would never run directly from the bench to second base. Instead, he would detour via third base or loop around first, believing the indirect path would ward off bad luck.

3 Always Swinging at the First Ball

John W. “Bud” Fowler, one of the first African‑American players and a ten‑season veteran, developed a simple yet stubborn ritual in 1889 while with the Michigan State League. No matter how high or wild the pitch, he would swing at the first ball that crossed the plate, trusting that the initial offering held good fortune.

2 Using Children, Dogs, and Monkeys as Good Luck Charms

William “Buck” Ewing, a stellar catcher who hit over .300 ten times, surrounded himself with mascots. He recruited street‑wise boys like William Breslin, kept a ring‑tailed monkey, and even a toy barking dog as talismans for the New York Giants, believing each charm could turn the tide in his favor.

1 Bat‑Carrying Redheads Were Bad Luck

Shortstop William “Bill” G. Gleason, who played from 1882 to 1889 and famously shared an infield with his brother, harbored an aversion to red‑haired bat carriers. An 1884 interview in the Harrisburg Telegraph reported that Gleason turned ghostly white at the sight of a red‑haired boy lugging a bat bag, convinced the sight spelled the worst kind of bad luck.

These ten bizarre superstitions illustrate how 19th‑century ballplayers blended folklore, personal quirks, and sheer desperation in the quest for victory. While many of the rituals would raise a laugh today, they remind us that the love of the game often walks hand‑in‑hand with a dash of the irrational.

Welcome to a whirlwind tour of 10 odd superstitions that have haunted kitchens, dining rooms, and wedding halls for centuries. From the moment you spot a hole in a loaf to the ritual of pulling a wishbone, each belief carries a mix of folklore, fear, and a dash of humor. Buckle up, because we’re about to explore some of the most unusual food‑related superstitions that have survived wars, colonization, and the march of modernity.

1. Hole In Bread Superstition

Back in the day – and perhaps still whispered in some rural corners – finding a hole in a freshly cut loaf of bread was taken as a grim omen. The hole was thought to represent a tiny coffin, signaling that someone close to the baker was about to meet an untimely demise. Those who discovered such a loaf would spend days speculating over whose life might be cut short, turning a simple bakery mishap into a morbid guessing game. In today’s world, where most of us buy pre‑sliced loaves, this superstition has largely faded into the background, but its eerie legacy remains a fascinating footnote in culinary folklore.

2. Egg Shell Ends Not Crushed

Imagine a witch gathering uncrushed egg shells to build a tiny boat capable of sailing the seas and stirring up storms. This bizarre superstition, dating back to the 1580s, warned that if you failed to smash the ends of an egg after eating it, a malevolent sorceress could collect the intact shells, fashion a vessel, and set sail to summon tempestuous weather. The logic was simple: a crushed shell, riddled with holes, would be useless for boat‑building, thereby thwarting the witch’s plans. While the image of a full‑sized human perched on a miniature egg‑shell boat is absurd, the belief persisted, illustrating how everyday kitchen habits could be steeped in supernatural anxiety.

3. Cross On Bread Before Baking

Another age‑old superstition dictated that every loaf should bear a cross before it entered the oven. The rationale? The cross acted as a protective sigil, keeping the devil from perching on the dough and cursing its rise. Some bakers even claimed that a properly crossed loaf would ascend more gracefully in the oven – though, of course, the real reason lies in proper kneading and yeast activity, not celestial interference. Nevertheless, the practice endured, especially in households where faith and food intertwined, turning a simple baking step into a ritual of spiritual safeguarding.

4. Salt Helping Another Person

Spilling salt is a well‑known omen, but an even stranger belief warned against assisting someone else with the salt shaker. The old saying, “help to salt, help to sorry,” captured the notion that offering salt to another could bring misfortune upon both parties. Given salt’s essential role in preserving food and sustaining life, it earned a near‑sacred status, and any perceived misuse was thought to invite ill‑luck. While most modern diners freely pass the shaker, the phrase remains a quirky reminder of salt’s historic weight in superstitious thought.

5. Tea‑Pot Rituals

Sharing a teapot could be a recipe for bad luck, according to an old superstition that declared it unlucky for two people to pour tea from the same pot. Adding to the intrigue, leaving the teapot’s lid uncovered while brewing was believed to herald the arrival of a stranger. Practitioners even performed a series of wrist‑tapping rituals to divine the precise day, hour, and gender of the impending visitor. Though today we casually enjoy communal tea, these customs reveal how deeply everyday tea‑time could be woven into the fabric of foretelling and fate.

6. Christmas Cake Stirring Tradition

Holiday baking comes with its own set of superstitions, and one of the most persistent involves the Christmas cake. The belief held that every family member must take a turn stirring the batter; otherwise, misfortune would befall the household. Unmarried young women were especially urged to participate, lest they remain single for another year. The ritual turned a festive confection into a communal rite, ensuring that luck – and perhaps love – would be baked right into the cake’s crumb.

7. Fresh Egg In The Field Fortune‑Telling

Across many parts of Europe, farmers would carry a fresh egg into their fields, believing it would guarantee a healthy harvest. The egg also served as a divination tool: a double yolk foretold an upcoming marriage, a black spot on the yolk signaled a bad omen, and an egg completely lacking a yolk was considered the worst possible sign, predicting disaster. This blend of agricultural hope and personal prophecy illustrates how a simple egg could become a powerful symbol of both bounty and destiny.

8. Garlic Against The Evil Eye

In Greek folklore, the evil eye – a malevolent glare that brings minor misfortune – can be warded off by carrying a clove of garlic. While the superstition may seem out of place in a list about food, its inclusion is justified: garlic becomes a protective talisman, a culinary herb that doubles as a shield against envy‑induced curses. So the next time you sniff a fragrant garlic bulb, remember it might be more than just a flavor enhancer; it could be your personal amulet against ill‑will.

9. Wishbone Pulling Tradition

The classic wishbone ritual remains a beloved superstition in many Western households. Two participants each grip a end of the dried turkey or chicken bone with their pinkies and pull; the one who ends up with the longer piece is granted good luck and gets to make a wish. Though many claim they’re not superstitious, almost everyone has tried this at least once, proving that even the simplest of bone‑breaking games can carry a whisper of magical hope.

10. Throwing Rice At Weddings

Perhaps the most universally recognized culinary superstition is the tradition of tossing rice at newlyweds. Originating centuries ago, the act is meant to usher in prosperity, wealth, and happiness for the couple’s future. While the spectacle is now so commonplace that we rarely pause to consider its deeper meaning, the ritual’s roots lie in the belief that rice – a staple of sustenance – would symbolically ensure the couple never knows hunger. In today’s era of lavish weddings, some even suggest swapping rice for cash, but the age‑old superstition still holds firm in many cultures.

10 Odd Superstitions About Food

These ten curious beliefs show how food, beyond nourishing our bodies, can also feed our imaginations and anxieties. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the stories behind each superstition add a flavorful layer to the meals we share.

Step into a world where logic meets whimsy as we explore the 10 most bizarre casino superstitions worldwide. From carrying lucky charms to avoiding specific numbers and colors, these quirky beliefs shape players’ experiences and decision‑making at the tables, offering fascinating insight into the realm of luck and chance.

1 Top 10 Most Bizarre Casino Superstitions Explained

In the glittering world of casinos, players often cling to unique beliefs in hopes of swaying luck in their favor. From ancient rituals to cultural quirks, these superstitions add a layer of intrigue to the gambling experience. Below are the top 10 most bizarre casino superstitions, each offering a fascinating glimpse into the mindset of players worldwide.

1. Blowing on Dice for Good Luck

Often seen in movies and on the casino floor, players tap into the tradition of blowing on dice before rolling them. This act is believed to bring good luck and ensure more favorable outcomes. While its origins remain unclear, this superstition continues to be popular, particularly in American gambling circles.

2. The Power of Lucky Colors

Colors have significant influence over gambling superstitions. In Chinese culture, wearing or showcasing the color red is thought to attract prosperity and success. Conversely, some players might avoid certain colors like black, linking them to bad fortune. This reliance on hues is a testament to the deep‑rooted cultural beliefs surrounding luck.

3. The Mystery of Body Position

Body posture plays a curious role in gambling superstitions. Many players adhere to rules about how they sit or stand while playing. For instance, crossing legs is often avoided as it’s thought to “cross out” good luck, especially in places like Japan. This belief in the impact of body position is shared by players seeking every possible advantage.

4. The Significance of Lucky Charms

Carrying lucky charms is a staple practice among gamblers. Items such as rabbit’s feet, four‑leaf clovers, and even specific articles of clothing are considered to ward off bad luck and attract wins. These items offer players a sense of control and comfort amidst the unpredictability of the casino.

5. Personal Rituals for Winning

Very personal to each player, rituals can vary widely. From holding one’s breath during a crucial game to saying a silent prayer, these habits are believed to align luck in favor of the player. Whether they hold any real power or not, such rituals are integral to a player’s casino experience.

6. The Taboo of Whistling While Playing

In some cultures, whistling is associated with driving away money and luck. Whistling indoors, especially at the gaming tables, is a big no‑no, as believed by many Russian gamblers. This superstition serves as a reminder of how deeply customs and beliefs are ingrained in everyday actions.

7. Avoiding Unlucky Numbers

Numbers hold great weight in gambling beliefs. The number 13 is often avoided due to its widespread association with misfortune, and the number 4 is shunned in East Asian cultures because of its phonetic similarity to the word “death.” By contrast, some numbers, like 7, are revered for their perceived lucky properties.

8. The Folklore of Counting Money at the Table

A widely recognized superstition is abstaining from counting money while still engaged in gambling. Many players believe that counting their chips or cash could unwittingly bring bad luck, disrupting their chances of winning. This custom highlights a common belief that fortune smiles more favorably on those who demonstrate patience and restraint.

9. The Myth of the $50 Bill

In American casinos, many gamblers shy away from $50 bills, convinced they bring misfortune. Originating from a historical association with crime and mob activity, this superstition persists despite the lack of evidence to support it. Avoiding these bills remains a common practice for the superstitious gambler.

10. Entering Through the Casino’s Front Door

Some players maintain that avoiding the front entrance of a casino might prevent bad luck. This belief is tied to Feng Shui practices and the idea that entering through side or alternative entrances may invite better fortune. Although it may appear irrational to outsiders, those who hold this belief swear by its effect on their gambling outcomes.

These intriguing superstitions enrich the global gambling tapestry, offering insights into the cultural and psychological elements that shape player behavior. Whether they genuinely influence outcomes or merely provide comfort, these beliefs are an integral part of the casino experience.

2 Top Casinos Where Superstitions Come Alive: Play Where Luck Meets Legend

3 Understanding Casino Superstitions

What Makes Casino Superstitions So Fascinating?

The appeal of casino superstitions lies in their ability to add an extra layer of excitement and mystique to gambling. Players often turn to these beliefs, seeking control over outcomes in what is essentially a game of unpredictability. The blend of tradition, personal experience, and hope makes superstitions a compelling element of the gambling culture. Whether it’s wearing a certain color, clutching a lucky charm, or dodging specific numbers, these customs provide a unique form of entertainment, fueling curiosity and conversation among players.

History and Origins of Gambling Superstitions

Many casino superstitions have historical and cultural roots that date back centuries. The fear of the number 13, intrinsic to Western cultures, can be traced to Norse mythology and ancient Christian traditions, where the number was associated with misfortune. In contrast, the color red’s auspiciousness in Chinese culture is rooted in ancient customs and festivals, such as the Lunar New Year, which symbolizes prosperity and success. These beliefs evolve, carried through generations, becoming integral to the rituals and experiences of gamblers around the globe.

4 Global Casino Superstitions: A Cultural Overview

In the cacophony of a casino, amidst the hum of excitement and clinking chips, lies a realm governed by beliefs as varied as the players themselves. Superstitions offer more than just intrigue—they shape decisions and enhance experiences. Across the globe, these beliefs take root in culture and history, creating a fascinating tapestry of rituals and customs. From numerical fears to sartorial choices, each country brings its own flair to the world of gambling quirks.

The Influence of Culture on Gambling Beliefs

Culture plays a pivotal role in crafting a player’s gambling persona. In many regions, numbers hold profound significance. For instance, Western societies often dread the number 13 due to its ominous mythological and religious connotations. East Asian players avoid the number 4, as it phonetically resembles the word “death” in several languages, like Mandarin and Cantonese. Conversely, the number 7 is venerated for its associations with luck and prosperity, although its perceived fortune varies among cultures.

Color symbolism is equally potent. Chinese culture cherishes red for its links to prosperity and luck, with gamblers wearing red to attract success. Meanwhile, American gamblers avoid $50 bills, an aversion steeped in gangster legends. Such cultural nuances vividly illustrate how beliefs can sway the behaviors and choices of players at the gaming tables.

Comparing Superstitions Across Different Countries

When examining superstitions around the globe, intriguing differences—and similarities—emerge. In Japan, gamblers shun crossing their legs while playing, fearing it will hinder their fortune. Similarly, counting money during a game is believed to jinx future wins. In the United States, a popular ritual is blowing on dice, a practice immortalized by Hollywood as a charm for favorable results.

Over in Russia, a tradition exists where players sit in silence before gambling, a moment for contemplation believed to usher in good luck. Meanwhile, Italians have a unique practice: they believe touching a hunchback can transfer luck, and many carry a cornicello to fend off bad vibes. In the United Kingdom, players often pocket a lucky coin and avoid donning new shoes, fearing a losing streak.

Superstitions offer gamblers a sense of control and identity, embedding themselves into the gambling psyche. Whether or not these beliefs influence outcomes, they remain integral to the gaming experience, highlighting the rich heritage of gambling cultures around the world.

5 How to Use Superstitions to Improve Your Casino Experience

Whether you believe in the power of superstitions or merely find them intriguing, incorporating them into your casino experience can add a layer of excitement and confidence. From carrying a lucky charm to choosing the right number, these rituals can enhance your enjoyment and personal connection to the game. Here, we explore practical ways to weave superstitions into your gambling experience and how to maintain a balance between logic and these age‑old beliefs.

Practical Ways to Incorporate Superstitions

Superstitions can be an enjoyable part of gaming, providing both entertainment and a sense of comfort. Start by selecting a lucky charm that resonates with you. This could be anything, from a rabbit’s foot to a four‑leaf clover, even a specific piece of clothing that you associate with good fortune. Carry it with you to the casino to help create a personal haven of luck.

Pay attention to numerical superstitions that may align with your beliefs or cultural background. For Western players, you might want to sit at a table numbered 7 or wear something red if you subscribe to Chinese traditions, as these are considered symbols of luck. Avoid numbers that you feel are unlucky, such as 13 or 4, depending on your cultural context.

Consider adopting physical rituals or actions believed to sway fate. For instance, some players believe in tapping the table a certain number of times or blowing on dice before they roll them. These acts may not affect the outcome of the game but can offer a psychological boost, enhancing your experience.

Balancing Logic and Superstitions in Gambling

While superstitions can add fun and confidence to your casino experience, it’s vital to balance them with logical strategies. Acknowledge the power of these beliefs in your emotional state but ensure they don’t cloud your judgment or lead to irrational decisions.

Understanding the odds and strategies behind the games you play is crucial. Practice mathematical reasoning and keep track of your spending while indulging in superstitions to stay grounded. Remember that while lucky charms and rituals may boost your positive mindset, they cannot alter the mathematical probabilities or guarantee winnings.

Incorporating superstitions should complement your experience without overshadowing logical decision‑making. Enjoy the blend of rationality and whimsy as you engage with casino games, drawing from both strategy and the charm of tradition.

6 Product and Service Comparisons: What to Consider

When deciding between different casino experiences, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option, from the traditional glamor of land‑based casinos to the convenience and accessibility of online platforms. Additionally, factors such as superstitions and personal preferences can significantly influence a player’s choice. This guide will explore the nuances of casino experiences and help you understand how both online and land‑based settings create distinct environments for gamblers.

Comparing Different Casino Experiences

Land‑Based Casinos are often synonymous with opulence and an enchanting atmosphere that heightens the thrill of gambling. The social interaction, ambiance, and physical presence of spinning wheels and shuffling cards can enhance the excitement. However, it requires physical travel, which can be a limiting factor for those seeking a quick gaming session.

Online Casinos offer unmatched convenience, allowing you to engage from the comfort of your home. With an array of games at your fingertips and the ability to play anytime, they attract a broad audience. The technological advancement in graphics and live dealer games creates a compelling replication of physical casinos. However, the lack of a tangible atmosphere and face‑to‑face interactions might be a downside for some enthusiasts.

Online vs. Land‑Based Casinos: Which is More Superstitious?

The superstition factor in gambling can vary drastically in online versus land‑based casinos. In the tangible environment of a land‑based casino, traditional customs and routines are more prevalent. People may perform rituals at the tables, carry lucky charms, or engage in customary actions like blowing on dice, enabling a rich cultural tapestry of superstitions to unfold.

In contrast, online casinos offer a different playing field for superstition. The digital nature might minimize physical rituals, yet cyber‑gamblers often develop their own unique habits. Picking games based on themes, colors, or numbers that appear fortuitous becomes a way of infusing luck into the online experience. Thus, superstitions manifest differently but remain a pivotal part of how players engage.

7 Latest News and Trends in Casino Superstitions

Casino superstitions have intrigued many for generations, creating a landscape of quirky rituals and revered charms that players from around the globe hold dear. As gambling evolves, so too do these beliefs, blending tradition with new cultural influences. This article will explore the recent developments in gambling beliefs and explain how casino superstitions are evolving in today’s world.

Recent Developments in Gambling Beliefs

As casinos increasingly digitize their offerings, the way players interact with games is changing, subsequently influencing superstitions. The rise of online gambling platforms has seen traditional superstitions adapted for the digital age. Players who once touched their lucky charms physically now swear by unique digital rituals, such as always playing in a specific “lucky chair” at home or using special avatars believed to enhance fortune.

Another recent trend is the cultural exchange of superstitions due to the global reach of online platforms. Gamblers are more exposed to beliefs from other regions and often integrate international customs into their practices, blending different traditions to form new, hybrid superstitions. This phenomenon further enriches the tapestry of gambling rituals as players find new ways to imbue their games with perceived luck.

How Casino Superstitions Are Evolving

The evolution of casino superstitions goes beyond cultural exchanges, reflecting changes in player psychology and industry trends. The development of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) casinos introduces opportunities for immersive ritualistic behavior. Virtual talismans, customizable surroundings, and augmented reality elements can cater to superstition‑driven players who personalize their gaming environments to include symbols of fortune.

Moreover, there is a growing perceptual shift towards viewing superstitions as entertainment rather than steadfast beliefs. More players recognize the psychological effects of their rituals, using them to enhance enjoyment and engagement rather than solely relying on them for luck. This nuanced understanding encourages responsible gambling as players keep their expectations in check while still indulging in traditional customs they find comforting and engaging.

8 Frequently Asked Questions About Casino Superstitions

What Are Some Common Good Luck Rituals?

Common good luck rituals include blowing on dice in American casinos, wearing red clothing in Chinese culture, and carrying lucky charms like rabbit’s feet or four‑leaf clovers. These rituals are believed to sway fortune in the player’s favor.

Are Superstitions Based on Any Scientific Evidence?

Superstitions are largely not grounded in scientific evidence. They stem from cultural beliefs and personal rituals that give players a sense of control or comfort rather than being based on factual data.

How Do Superstitions Affect Gambling Outcomes?

Superstitions can affect gambling outcomes by influencing a player’s decision‑making and behavior. While they may provide confidence and enhance enjoyment, they can lead to irrational choices, impacting the player’s financial outcomes.

When the clock strikes midnight, countless cultures unleash a flurry of rituals that promise luck, wealth, and good vibes for the year ahead. In this roundup we explore 10 fascinating origins of New Year’s Eve superstitions that range from the deliciously timed to the downright daring. From the bustling plazas of Madrid to the quiet doorsteps of Danish homes, each custom carries a story as colorful as the fireworks that light up the sky.

10 Fascinating Origins of New Year’s Eve Superstitions

10 Eating Grapes for Luck in Spain

In Spain, the moment the clock bells toll midnight, a high‑pressure culinary challenge erupts: twelve grapes must be devoured in twelve seconds—one for each month of the upcoming year. The tradition, which began in the early 1900s when grape growers faced a surplus harvest, turned a simple fruit into a marketing marvel. By urging citizens to munch the grapes in perfect sync with the chimes, growers ensured both sales and a burst of good‑fortune folklore.

The ritual is far from effortless. Families scramble to chew, swallow, and sometimes even choke on the grapes, creating comedic chaos at gatherings and public squares. In Madrid’s Puerta del Sol, throngs line up to count down together, each participant racing against the clock. What started as a clever commercial ploy has blossomed into a cornerstone of Spanish New Year’s culture, uniting strangers in a shared, jittery celebration of luck.

9 Smashing Plates for Good Luck in Denmark

Denmark’s New Year’s Eve soundtrack includes the shattering of porcelain. Residents arm themselves with chipped plates and fling them against friends’ doors, believing each broken piece summons prosperity for the household receiving the debris. The more fragments you find on your doorstep the following morning, the richer the year ahead is presumed to be. This noisy tradition stems from the belief that smashed items repel malevolent spirits and symbolize a fresh start.

Families stockpile old crockery throughout the year, saving the most battered pieces for the midnight ceremony. The practice also doubles as a popularity contest; a doorstep piled high with shards indicates a well‑liked, socially connected household. While outsiders might balk at the waste, Danes see it as a literal clearing of the old to welcome the new, a communal act that literally breaks the past.

8 Jumping Off Chairs in the Philippines

Filipinos add a literal leap into the New Year by encouraging children and teens to hop off chairs or tables as the clock strikes twelve. The belief holds that this airborne stunt will stretch their height in the months that follow, turning a simple jump into a hopeful growth spell. Parents cheer on the youngsters, turning the ritual into a lively family affair that blends superstition with playful competition.

This jumping tradition sits alongside other Filipino customs: round fruits decorate homes to mimic coins and attract wealth, firecrackers roar to scare off evil, and windows stay ajar to let positive energy flow inside. Together, these practices weave a tapestry of symbolism, where each leap, each fruit, and each crackle contributes to a vibrant, hopeful celebration of new beginnings.

7 Wearing Red Underwear in Italy

Italians usher in the New Year with a cheeky splash of color—red underwear. Traced back to ancient Roman festivals where scarlet symbolized power, passion, and protection, the habit persists as a modern talisman for love, luck, and fertility. Romans once donned red garments during winter solstice rites to ward off malevolent forces and secure a prosperous start.

Today, boutiques line up red lingerie displays as the holiday approaches, and couples often exchange crimson undergarments as a flirty, good‑luck gift. The rule of thumb: the underwear should be brand‑new and ideally presented as a present, ensuring the wearer receives untainted fortune. This blend of historic symbolism and contemporary romance makes the tradition both meaningful and amusing.

6 Footing in Scotland

Scotland’s Hogmanay centers on “first‑footing,” the belief that the first individual to cross your threshold after midnight dictates the year’s luck. Traditionally, a tall, dark‑haired male visitor is prized, a vestige of Viking‑era anxieties where blonde strangers signaled danger. The chosen first‑foot brings gifts—coal for warmth, whiskey for cheer, and bread for sustenance—each representing abundance.

Meticulous planning goes into selecting the ideal first‑foot, with neighbors often coordinating visits to guarantee the most auspicious entry. Over time, the custom has evolved into a festive neighborhood exchange, where doors swing open to a chorus of blessings, merging superstition with communal merriment.

5 Burning Effigies in Ecuador

Ecuador rings in the New Year by igniting “año viejo,” a towering effigy fashioned from discarded clothing, paper, and wood. The figure embodies the misfortunes of the past year, and its fiery demise at midnight symbolizes a clean slate and the banishment of bad luck. The ritual blends indigenous purification rites with Spanish colonial influences, creating a vivid spectacle of renewal.

Crafted often as caricatures of politicians, celebrities, or fictional characters, the effigies let citizens vent frustrations with a dash of humor. Some participants leap over the flames, a daring act meant to leave woes behind. Fireworks accompany the blaze, turning the night into a dazzling display of sound, light, and cathartic release.

4 Carrying Suitcases in Colombia

Colombians chase wanderlust by whirling around the block with an empty suitcase precisely at midnight. The symbolic trek is believed to summon a year brimming with travel and adventure. Families sprint, jog, or stride with their luggage as the clock chimes, broadcasting a clear intention to the universe.

Enthusiasts sometimes pack the suitcase with meaningful items—maps, postcards, or tickets—to amplify the charm. The ritual often dovetails with other prosperity customs, like donning yellow underwear for wealth or munching grapes for luck. Neighborhoods buzz with laughter as suitcases clatter along sidewalks, turning superstition into a communal celebration of possibility.

3 Eating Lentils in Brazil

In Brazil, lentils take center stage on New Year’s Eve, prized for their coin‑like appearance and the promise of financial prosperity. Families serve them in soups, stews, or as side dishes, believing the tiny legumes will attract wealth throughout the year. The custom likely arrived with Italian immigrants, who linked lentils to monetary abundance.

The lentil feast often shares space with pork (signifying progress) and grapes (general good fortune). Some Brazilians even pocket a few lentils in their wallets, a tactile reminder to “draw in” money. This culinary tradition reflects Brazil’s cultural mosaic and its emphasis on starting the year with a hearty dose of optimism.

2 Dropping Ice Cream in Switzerland

Swiss revelers add a sweet twist to their New Year’s celebrations by deliberately dropping a scoop of ice cream onto the floor. The act is thought to coax good fortune from the universe, a playful offering that balances humor with hope. Though the exact origins are hazy, the ritual has cemented itself as a beloved part of Swiss festivities.

Often the ice cream is paired with other symbolic foods—bread or wine—to boost its potency. Children especially relish the moment, turning a formal gathering into a light‑hearted affair. Regardless of modern interpretations, the purposeful “sacrifice” of dessert remains a whimsical conduit for wishing luck and abundance.

1 Smashing Pomegranates in Greece

Greece caps the New Year’s countdown by shattering a pomegranate against the front door, a vivid homage to prosperity, health, and fortune. Rooted in ancient mythology, the fruit symbolized life, fertility, and abundance. Families select a pristine pomegranate, treat it with reverence, and then break it with gusto, letting its ruby seeds spill across the threshold.

The scattered seeds serve as a fortune‑telling tableau—the greater the spread, the richer the year ahead. Some households hang remnants of the broken fruit near the entrance as a protective charm, while others enjoy the seeds as part of the celebratory feast. This tradition showcases Greece’s deep connection to symbolic rituals, marrying mythic heritage with modern optimism.

Some people cherish the lone‑wolf vibe, preferring solitude over shared space, and treat love as a distant, optional garnish on life’s menu. Others, however, see love as the very heartbeat of existence – the pulse that fuels every human story. And for the majority, love stands as one of the most powerful emotions we can experience. These ten superstitions will show you how ancient beliefs from around the globe can quietly undermine that very feeling.

Why 10 Superstitions Will Influence Your Romance

10 Having a Beard

Facial hair has long been a badge of masculinity, yet not everyone finds a bristly chin appealing. Modern grooming tools have turned manscaping into a breeze, but some still channel their inner caveman, letting the beard grow wild, hiding the chin, or merely teasing a hint of stubble.

Across several cultures, however, sporting a beard is considered a harbinger of bad luck when it comes to courting. In particular regions, a shaggy face is thought to repel potential partners and even sabotage budding romances.

Historically, bearded figures—warriors and leaders alike—were sometimes viewed with suspicion. A clean‑shaven visage was associated with higher social standing, while a beard could signal a lower‑class background, subtly diminishing a man’s appeal to those seeking a partner of elevated status.

9 Even Flowers

Flowers have become a universal token of affection, from first‑date gestures in the West to comforting a sick relative. In Russia, however, the tradition carries a numeric twist that can make or break a romance.

Before presenting a bouquet, count each bloom. An odd number of flowers is deemed auspicious, while an even number is linked to funerary customs and is believed to bring misfortune to a romantic overture.

Offering an even‑sized arrangement can be taken as an insult, evoking memories of mourning and sorrow—hardly the vibe you want when trying to spark love.

8 The Number 8

The fear of the number thirteen is widely known, yet in certain parts of India, the digit eight carries its own ominous reputation for lovers.

Here, the number eight is tied to the planet Saturn (Shani) and is thought to cast a gloomy shadow over newlyweds. Scheduling a wedding on the eighth day of a month is believed to invite discord and bad luck.

Curiously, the date 08/08/08 was once considered a lucky reversal, where the repeated eights turned the negative connotation on its head, turning misfortune into a moment of serendipity.

7 Not Finding the Name

Henna, a staple of many Indian celebrations, often features intricate patterns that hide a secret: the groom’s name, woven into the bride’s mehndi design.

Traditionally, this “name game” served as an icebreaker on the wedding night. If the groom successfully located his name, it was a positive omen; failing to do so suggested the bride might dominate the marital dynamic.

Even today, the ritual persists more for fun than superstition, yet in some families the ceremony is paused until the groom discovers the hidden moniker, underscoring the lingering belief in its significance.

6 No Coins

Money may not buy love, but financial friction is a leading cause of marital strain. In Sweden, a quirky superstition aims to shield brides from monetary woes.

According to tradition, a father presents his daughter with two coins on her wedding day: a gold piece placed in the right shoe and a silver piece in the left. This dual‑coin ritual symbolizes perpetual abundance.

The belief is that the bride will never face scarcity, as the coins act as talismans ensuring a steady flow of wealth throughout the marriage.

5 Sharing a Towel

Sharing a towel might seem like a space‑saving hack, but in Russian folklore, it’s thought to invite future quarrels between partners.

The belief holds that using the same towel can sow the seeds of conflict, leading to arguments that could erode a relationship over time.

While the notion may sound whimsical, many couples heed this warning, opting for separate towels to keep the peace and avoid any ominous omen of discord.

4 Opening Scissors

We all learned early on not to run with scissors, yet many of us still leave them open or snap them shut for no reason, unaware of the superstitious danger it may pose to romance.

In Egypt and parts of North Africa, an open pair of scissors is believed to “cut” the bond between lovers, potentially leading to a breakup until the scissors are closed again.

Some even claim that opening scissors during a wedding ceremony can render the groom impotent, while dropping them may signal infidelity. The safest bet? Keep them closed and out of sight.

3 The Gift of Time

Clocks and watches have become almost redundant in the age of smartphones, yet gifting a timepiece can still carry heavy cultural baggage.

In China, presenting a clock is considered a morbid omen. The phrase for “giving a clock” sounds like “sending someone off on their final journey” in Cantonese, making it a taboo for young lovers.

Thus, offering a clock can be interpreted as wishing the recipient’s time is running out, a sentiment especially offensive to older generations and a clear relationship red flag.

2 Pregnancy at a Wedding

Many weddings enforce a “no children” rule, but in certain parts of China, the superstition goes a step further, banning pregnant women from attending altogether.

The belief stems from the idea that a pregnant woman’s positive energy clashes with the bride’s, potentially causing misfortune for both the ceremony and the unborn child.

While some cite scientific reasoning, the cultural taboo persists, urging couples to keep the two celebrations separate to avoid any negative cosmic interference.

1 Yellow Roses

Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to surprise a crush with flowers, but beware the hue you choose. Yellow roses, while bright, carry a surprisingly dark connotation.

Across several cultures, yellow roses symbolize jealousy, a decline in affection, and even infidelity—essentially the love‑killer after the infamous “wet towel” superstition.

To keep the romance thriving, stick with classic red roses, which convey passion and commitment without the hidden sting of envy.

Something about life on the high seas seems to stir a touch of superstition, and our top 10 mysterious nautical legends and superstitions prove why sailors cling to every omen, trick, or myth that might grant a sliver of safety.

Why These Top 10 Mysterious Tales Matter

From cursed fruit to ghostly ships, each story reflects the raw fear and awe that the ocean inspires. Whether it’s a protective sprite or a dreaded omen, these legends have survived centuries of sailing, shaping the culture of every mariner who dared the waves.

10 Jonahs

If you picture a ship’s crew as a tight‑knit brotherhood, you’ll quickly learn they weren’t keen on just anyone stepping aboard. Anyone deemed a harbinger of bad luck earned the nickname “Jonah,” a nod to the biblical prophet who was swallowed by a great fish and later spat out.

Women, red‑haired folk, priests, debtors, and even murderers fell under this unlucky umbrella. Sailors believed a woman could distract the crew and anger the sea‑gods; one medieval account recounts a crew hurling dozens of female passengers overboard during a storm, only to see the men perish as well.

Paradoxically, a pregnant woman who survived the voyage, or a child born at sea, was considered a blessing. Naked women, strangely enough, were also thought to bring good fortune—hence the many ship figureheads that proudly display a nude female form.

Priests, linked to funerals, reminded sailors of mortality, a notion they preferred to avoid. As for the fiery‑tempered redhead, a quick chat before boarding could supposedly ward off the associated bad luck.

9 Klabautermann

Unlike most sea folklore, the Klabautermann is a benevolent sprite from Northern European lore. Tiny sailors dressed in bright yellow, they’re said to pop up around a ship, fixing leaks, rescuing overboard mates, and even playing a jaunty tune on a pipe.

Shipbuilders often carved these mischievous helpers onto hulls as lucky charms. Spotting one could mean the vessel faced danger, but the Klabautermann might simply be warning the crew. Occasionally they’d move objects or pull harmless pranks, yet their primary reputation remained one of assistance. A particularly kind captain might even earn a loyal Klabautermann that followed him from ship to ship, offering protection.

8 No Bananas

The banana taboo is one of the strangest pieces of nautical lore, stretching back to the Caribbean in the 1700s. The theory goes that banana‑laden vessels had to race to keep the fruit from spoiling, a pace that didn’t mesh well with the slower, safety‑first rhythm of fishing or cargo ships.

Bananas also tend to rise to the surface of wrecks, leading sailors to link the fruit with disaster. Slipping on a peel was a genuine hazard, and the fruit’s ripening process releases ethylene gas, which could sicken crews and even weaken wooden hulls. Some even claim poisonous spiders and snakes hitch rides on the tropical fruit.

Modern anecdotes keep the myth alive. A Florida fisherman swears he checks passengers for Banana Republic apparel, Banana Boat sunscreen, and Fruit of the Loom underwear—despite the brand’s logo lacking any banana. In 2001, a captain famously cut the Banana Republic logo off a sailor’s shirt, insisting the superstition deserved respect.

7 Davy Jones and His Locker

Davy Jones’s locker is the euphemistic term for the ocean’s abyss, the final resting place for wrecked ships and drowned sailors. Early tales depict Jones as a devilish figure with horns, a tail, huge eyes, and rows of teeth, breathing blue smoke as he lingered in a ship’s rigging before a storm.

The name likely fuses two religious figures: Saint David, the patron saint of Wales, and the prophet Jonah. A real pirate named David Jones prowled the Indian Ocean in the 1630s, but his fame never matched the mythic Davy Jones. Some stories even point to a London pub owner who drugged sailors, locked them up, and sold them into slavery, later turning pirate and imprisoning crews before sinking their ships.

Despite the grim reputation, Davy Jones isn’t always a villain. In the Navy’s “crossing the line” ceremony—celebrating a sailor’s first passage over the equator—Davy Jones often appears as a sidekick to King Neptune, helping to usher the newcomer into the brotherhood of seafarers.

6 Mother Carey

Mother Carey is the sea witch or goddess sailors feared most. Emerging in the 18th and 19th centuries, she’s sometimes said to be Davy Jones’s spouse. Storm‑petrels—small seabirds—are believed to be the souls of dead mariners and are frequently called Mother Carey’s geese.

Legends grant her the power to summon retired sailors back to the waves and to wield a siren‑like voice that lures men to watery graves. In nearly every tale she’s a harbinger of tempests and shipwrecks, sending more souls to her husband’s locker.

The name likely stems from the phrase “mater cara,” meaning “precious mother,” shouted by terrified crews in peril. Some stories place her atop a floating iceberg, combing her hair with skeletal remains, adding a chilling visual to her already terrifying reputation.

5 Selkies

When sailors gazed into the rolling deep, it was only natural that they imagined shape‑shifting sea beings. Selkies, common in Celtic and Norse folklore, are creatures that can slip between seal and human form at will.

Romantic stories abound: a fisherman might steal a selkie’s seal skin, forcing the creature to stay ashore as a wife. Inevitably, the selkie either longs for the ocean and returns, leaving a heartbroken husband, or discovers its skin, rescues itself, and abandons the family to rejoin the waves.

Most tales focus on female selkies, though male versions exist, courting lonely wives of fishermen. Some narratives claim selkies were once fully human, cursed for sin, while others suggest they’re fallen angels. Children born with webbed feet or toes were often thought to be offspring of a selkie‑human union, blurring the lines between myth and reality.

4 The Flying Dutchman

The Flying Dutchman stands as perhaps the most famous ghost ship in maritime lore. Described as a spectral vessel glowing eerily on the horizon, sightings have been reported for centuries and are considered an omen of doom.

The earliest written account dates to 1790, chronicling a Dutch captain who refused to turn back while rounding the Cape of Good Hope, despite a raging storm. He swore to sail forever, prompting the devil to curse him and his crew to wander the seas eternally, awaiting the love of a woman who truly cares for him.

Some historians link the legend to real East India Company captain Bernard Fokke, whose astonishing speed sparked rumors of a pact with the devil. Even royalty has claimed to see the phantom; King George V reported a sighting in the early 20th century. Modern scientists suggest the phenomenon may be a Fata Morgana mirage, bending light to create a ghostly ship on the horizon.

3 The Chaleur Phantom

Close to the Dutchman’s fame, the Fireship of Baie des Chaleur—also known as the Chaleur Phantom—haunts the waters near New Brunswick, Canada. Witnesses describe a towering sailing ship ablaze, appearing just before a storm rolls in.

One origin tale tells of a woman slain by pirates who cursed the crew, declaring, “For as long as the world endures, may you burn upon the bay.” Another recounts a Portuguese captain who kidnapped Mi’kmaq people in 1501; the indigenous group killed him, and his brother’s retaliatory ship was set alight, its fiery silhouette promised to haunt the bay for a thousand years.

A third version claims a crew, fearing bad luck, murdered a man; his vengeful spirit ignited their vessel, and the flames have never ceased. Some scientists argue the spectacle may stem from natural gas emissions or marsh gas bubbling up, creating a brief, ghostly flare that fuels the legend.

2 St. Elmo’s Fire

Unlike the previous ominous tales, St. Elmo’s fire is a beacon of good luck. This luminous, blue‑violet glow appears on a ship’s mast, church spire, airplane wing, or even a bull’s horn when strong electrical fields build during a storm.

Historical figures from Charles Darwin to Nikola Tesla have documented the phenomenon. Sailors took it as a sign that St. Elmo—Erasmus of Formia, the patron saint of sailors—was watching over them, granting protection against the tempest.

Legend says St. Elmo survived a lightning strike that landed beside him, cementing his reputation as a guardian of those who brave the elements. He also serves as the patron saint of intestinal ailments, colic, cattle, and labor pains, making him a versatile figure in maritime folklore.

1 Tattoos

Tattoos have long been woven into nautical culture, transcending mere body art to become talismans of protection and achievement. The practice began when James Cook’s crew returned from the South Pacific in the 1700s, sporting Maori‑style markings as souvenirs of their voyages.

In the early 1900s, many men inked images of naked women, believing the pictures would exempt them from Navy drafts—though the ruse was quickly exposed when clothing was added over the artwork. The legendary “Sailor Jerry,” aka Norman Collins, popularized the bold, colorful American Navy tattoo style from his Hawaiian shop in the mid‑20th century.

Specific symbols carried purported magical properties. Tattoos of farm animals—pigs, chickens—were thought to convince a higher power that a land creature had been lost at sea, prompting rescue. A “Hold Fast” inscription on a sailor’s knuckles was believed to prevent falls from the rigging, while compasses or the North Star guided mariners home.

Other popular designs—swallows, anchors, dragons, turtles—celebrated milestones such as crossing the equator, the International Date Line, or a long voyage, turning each piece of ink into a living record of a sailor’s life on the ocean.

A superstition is essentially anything you believe with no actual good reason to believe it. It is the opposite of science and logic and, in fact, science and logic will tear it apart. So you ignore the science and logic because maybe one day you wore blue socks and got a raise at work, so now you believe wholeheartedly that your blue socks are lucky and make you money. 

Historically, whole cultures have come to adopt some of these superstitions as legit beliefs and fears based on coincidence, anecdotal evidence and maybe just a fervent hope that the world has some more mystery in it than we can see. Here are some of the weirdest of the bunch.

10. Opposing Mirrors Welcome the Devil

Having a mirror facing another mirror is a cool effect and the reason the hall of mirrors in a funhouse is in a place called a “funhouse” to begin with. It messes with your head, creates an endless hallway of fun, and also provides an effect used in far too many horror and action movies to even begin to count.

But apparently none of those were filmed in Mexico because you do not want to have one mirror face another mirror there. According to Mexican superstition, when a mirror faces another mirror you’re inviting the devil in by creating a threshold of doorway for him to enter your world. Maybe all of those horror movies with mirrors in them were on to something after all.

9. Filipino Pagpag

Pagpag is a fun word if you don’t know what it means, but in practice it’s a little grim. From a Filipino superstition relating to funerals, pagpag is what you might call the safety procedure you need to engage in before going home after a funeral or wake. Once you’ve left the somber affair, you go to a restaurant or a mall or wherever. Anywhere but home. You don’t even need to do anything at this place, you just need to be there.

Why? The bad energy and negative spirits you picked up at the funeral will follow you to the mall instead of your house. Does that mean that Filipino malls are all haunted? We can only assume. 

8. Don’t Whistle Indoors in Lithuania

Whistling is a good way to call your dog or pass the time if you and your six dwarf buddies are in the mines pulling out gems. It is not, however, anything you want to do when you visit Lithuania, at least not in anyone’s house. Etiquette in Lithuania is fairly conservative and even making eye contact with strangers is the sort of thing that is frowned upon, to give you an idea of how things go there.

But kicking it up a notch is the belief that whistling indoors will not only summon your dog, it will attract the attention of little devils as well. That’s not a metaphor or a euphemism, either. It’s just the genuine belief that demons of small stature might invade your home after being beckoned with a simple whistle. 

7. Never Toast with Water

Everyone likes a good toast at a wedding or some dinner party that takes place in the middle of a movie, but there is some etiquette regarding how to best pull this tradition off. For instance, you better be making your toast with anything but water lest the Ancient Greeks start spinning in their graves. 

According to superstition, the dead would drink from the River Lethe in Hades and that water would wash away all their ties to the mortal world. Drinking a toast with water in the living world was therefore akin to cursing someone to death or, at the very least, cursing yourself to it. How that was different from just having anon-toasted drink of water was probably up for debate, but typically a toast is meant as some kind of a blessing, so it would be a backhanded curse to use the beverage of the damned for it.

6. Upside Down Bread Invites Death

Have you ever heard that toast will always fall butter-side down? It’s not a superstition, just an unfortunate and sometimes true observation that can ruin your breakfast. But if we were in France that toast would potentially be some seriously bad luck because how you situate your bread holds some extra meaning there. Bread or baguettes left upside are believed to invite death. 

Why’s that? Well, some folks think it comes from executioners having the right to snag something for free from a shop if they grabbed it with one hand, and bakers leaving loaves upside for them so other shoppers would know not to take it. Nowadays, if you leave a loaf upside down, you’re inviting death to come and take from you and who wants that?

5. Lucky Poop

You’ve probably never felt entirely lucky to step in dog poop if it’s ever happened to you but maybe you should have. Word is the French have divided stepping in dog poop into two separate scenarios that you can experience based on a very weird superstition. If you happen to land your right foot into some dog plop you’re doomed to a life of dismal awfulness. However, if your left foot hits the pile well, then call your friends and family because good luck is a-comin’!

Russia is the source of a similar superstition you may have heard about birds. In this one, it’s considered good luck if a bird poops on your or something you own. Why would that be lucky? Well, the odds of getting hit by bird pop seem to be slim so by some definitions of the word lucky, you really are lucky if you get pooped on by a bird. An alternate theory is that it’s incredibly unlucky to get pooped on or to step on it and these superstitions are at least a small way to try to ameliorate the grossness by suggesting something good will come from it. 

4. Outdoor Knitting Prolongs the Winter

In North America we all routinely engage in the very odd yet annual superstition that a groundhog has the ability to determine whether or not winter’s going to last an additional six weeks or not. Why? No one bothers to ask anymore but it stems from an old Pennsylvania Dutch belief that the groundhog seeing its shadow would lead to prolonged winter, itself borrowed from a similar German belief about badgers which in turn may have come from the belief that clear weather on Candelmas means an extended winter.

Regardless of why we believe what we believe about meteorological rodents,  it spawned a really entertaining Bill Murray movie so we go with it. And that’s not the only superstition about winter overstaying its welcome in the world by a long shot. According to an Icelandic superstition, if you decide to sit on your doorstep and do some knitting in the winter, you’ve just prolonged that terrible season. Hopefully the afghan you made was extra warm. 

3. Yo-Yos Lead to Droughts

Most superstitions have an aspect of history to them, they’re ancient and relics of a bygone era. You can almost understand them insofar as they’re so old you can’t blame the worlds that created them because they didn’t know the science that explained so much of the world. If people thought black cats were unlucky then oh well, so be it. But what about a superstition about yo-yos? How do you account for that? According to a 1933 article, Syria outlawed yo-yos because there was a severe drought at the time killing cattle and crops. And while everyone was praying for rain to fall from the heavens and save the day, the yo-yos of the world were going down just like rain, but then being all deceitful as they flew right back up again. The leaders at the time decided this evil influence was to blame and yo-yos were banished. Police were even told to confiscate them on site.

The Onion didn’t exist in 1933 and the paper, the Barrier Miner from New South Wales in Australia, seemed like it was on the up and up. So while the story is absurd, is it any more absurd than thinking a broken mirror brings 7 years of bad luck?

2. The Hairy Goat Curse

If you’re of the carnivorous persuasion and have never eaten goat you should really give it a try, it’s quite tasty. That said, this was not something you could have recommended to women of the past in Rwanda thanks to an insidious superstition there about goat meat. According to the story, back in the day it was very taboo for a woman to dare eat the meat of a goat for fear she might take on that most unladylike of goaty characteristics, a full on beard. They’d also take on the goat’s habit of being stubborn. So a beard and a bad attitude which, you can imagine, no woman would ever want. 

Where does this belief come from? This may be nothing more than speculation but, with women unable to eat the meat, it meant that only men were enjoying it. And that does seem like a good way to be greedy and hoard all the delicious goat for yourself if you can convince everyone else it’ll cause them to grow beards.

1. Never Speak the Name of Carlos Menem

Have you ever heard of Carlos Menem? From 1989 to 1999, Menem was the President of Argentina and his legacy is a nearly Hitchcockian level of menace and bad luck. People will refuse to even say the man’s name for fear it may bring about another round of misfortune as though he were the Candyman or Voldemort. 

Argentina endured an economic crisis in 2001 for which Menem, though he had been out of office for two years, is often blamed. But that’s at least a “normal” explanation for why people might dislike Menem. His legacy goes far beyond poor financial planning. 

When Menem became President, two of his appointed ministers died early deaths. Had Menem cursed them? Well, apparently. And he was just getting warmed up.

In 1990, Menem patted a soccer player’s knee. He later broke that knee. Menem jinxed tennis players, race car drivers, famous dancers and singers, and even a boat racer who shook Menem’s hand and then lost his damn arm in a boat crash.  Some people even blamed him for an earthquake. And it wasn’t just others. Menem cursed himself, suffering a failed marriage and the untimely death of his own son. No one seemed safe from the man.

Thanks to the never ending stream of nightmarish coincidences and misfortune Menem became the embodiment of all that is unwanted and sinister in life. To invoke his name was to ask for bad times. So people don’t do it.