Venezuelan Superstitions
Ask around and you will often hear a cheerful estimate: Venezuelan daily life carries
around 300 folk beliefs, little “rules,” and luck rituals. Some are playful habits you
do with a smile, others are family sayings that get repeated for generations, and many are shared across different regions of Venezuela with
small local twists. This page gathers 120 of the most commonly repeated
Venezuelan superstitions in a clean, practical format you can browse, learn from, and compare.
- Home & hospitality
- Kitchen & food luck
- Money & work
- Love, friendship & family
- Travel & journeys
- Nature, weather & animals
- Body signs & everyday omens
- Calendar traditions (especially New Year)
These are cultural beliefs, not guarantees. Use them as a lens into tradition, family memory, and everyday symbolism.
Home & Hospitality Superstitions
Venezuelan homes often treat the doorway, the dining table, and the broom as “luck zones.” Many sayings aim to keep the household
harmonious and the welcome warm.
Sweeping Someone’s Feet
In many Venezuelan families, brushing a broom near someone’s feet is said to delay marriage luck, so people lift their feet and laugh “just in case.”
Do Not Shake Hands Across a Doorway
Greeting across the threshold is believed to split good energy; step fully in or out first to keep the welcome smooth.
Purse on the Floor
Placing a handbag on the ground is said to let money “run away,” so many people set it on a chair or hang it nearby.
Sitting on a Table Corner
Perched on the sharp corner of the dining table? A popular saying claims it can stretch the time until a wedding or long-term commitment.
Hat on the Bed
A hat placed on the bed is considered a small jinx; many families move it to a hook to keep the bedroom feeling settled.
Keys on the Table
Leaving keys on the dining table is said to invite unnecessary worries; a bowl by the door is the “luckier” spot.
A Protective Charm Near Babies
Some families use a small charm or bracelet as a sign of protection against envy, often mentioned as mal de ojo.
Open Windows After a Big Argument
A gentle household habit says fresh air “clears” the room; opening a window invites calm back in.
Avoid Breaking Mirrors
Many prefer to handle mirrors carefully because a broken one is linked to a long run of messy luck; replacing it “resets” the mood.
A Plant by the Entryway
Keeping a leafy plant near the door is seen as a living sign of prosperity, as if growth at the entrance encourages growth in life.
Right Foot First
Entering a new home (or returning after a trip) with the right foot is a classic gesture for good beginnings.
Broom Behind the Door
A widely repeated home saying places a broom behind the door to guide unwanted visits to end quickly while keeping the home friendly.
Coins in a Small Dish
A little dish with coins near the kitchen is treated as a quiet magnet for abundance, especially when kept clean and tidy.
A Candle for a Fresh Start
Some households light a candle during cleaning as a symbol of renewal; the focus is intention, not perfection.
Do Not Leave Laundry Overnight on a Chair
A common “order brings luck” belief says folded clothes belong in a drawer, not piled up, to keep life feeling organized.
Kitchen & Food Luck
Food rituals are especially vivid in Venezuela, where family tables are cultural anchors. Many beliefs try to keep meals
generous and conversation sweet.
Do Not Hand Salt Directly
A familiar table rule says you should set salt down instead of passing it hand-to-hand, to avoid friction and keep the meal peaceful.
Spilled Rice Means Plenty
Drop a few grains while cooking and you may hear it is a sign of abundance, so people sweep it up without scolding anyone.
Bread Should Not Sit Upside Down
Turning bread face-down is treated as an unlucky gesture, so many families flip it back to “keep fortune right-side up.”
A Spoon Falls, Someone Is Coming
When a spoon drops from the table, people joke that a visitor is on the way; the mood stays welcoming.
Fork or Utensil Drops
A falling utensil is often read as “company soon,” a small reminder to keep the home ready for friends.
Do Not Drink Coffee While the Broom Stands Up
A quirky kitchen saying warns that sipping coffee while a broom is standing upright “interrupts” luck, so people lay it down first.
Water Spill as “Fresh News”
Spilling water is sometimes taken as a sign of news arriving; it becomes an excuse to smile and continue calmly.
Sweet Things Invite Sweet Days
Some families believe offering a small sweet bite to guests helps the household stay pleasant and conversations stay kind.
Do Not Eat Straight From the Pot
A playful warning says eating directly from the pot can “call” inconvenient weather for a future celebration, so people serve food properly for good form.
First Taste Sets the Tone
The first bite of a special dish is treated as symbolic; many take it slowly and say something positive to “season” the moment.
Citrus for a Bright Mood
Using citrus aroma in the kitchen is seen as a gentle “reset,” a sign of freshness and clean intention.
Garlic as a Protective Ingredient
Beyond flavor, garlic can be treated as a symbol of protection, especially when a family wants the home to feel “shielded” from envy.
Serve the Elders First
A respect-based superstition says the table “blesses” the meal when elders are served first, keeping family bonds strong.
Return a Plate “As It Came”
If a neighbor lends food, many return the dish with a little something inside, so generosity keeps circulating.
A Ladle as a “Door Magnet”
A folk idea places a kitchen ladle near the entrance to “pull in” prosperity, turning an everyday object into a symbol.
Money & Work Superstitions
These beliefs aim to keep finances steady and opportunities open. Most are simple habits that encourage
confidence and momentum.
Never Keep an Empty Wallet
Even a small bill is thought to “teach” the wallet to stay full, so many avoid carrying it completely empty.
Pick Up Coins Facing Up
Finding a coin with the “bright side” up is treated as a quick sign of luck; people pocket it gratefully.
Pay Debts Before Big Celebrations
A practical superstition says starting a new cycle with debts cleared invites peace and less worry.
Avoid Sweeping Late at Night
Sweeping after dark is said to “sweep away” luck; many tidy earlier to keep the home feeling stable.
Do Not Place Work Tools on the Bed
Laptops, paperwork, and tools on the bed are believed to bring restlessness; keep rest and work clearly separated.
Speak Goals Out Loud (Once)
Some people prefer to announce a goal only once, believing repeated talk can “leak” energy that should go into action.
Keep the Front Door Area Clear
Clutter at the entrance is said to block opportunity; a tidy entryway “lets life in.”
Do Not Sit on Your Work Desk
A common office superstition says sitting on the desk “presses down” progress; keep the workspace respected.
Pin Important Notes Neatly
Organized reminders are treated as a sign of control; messy notes are said to attract messy outcomes.
Do Not Lend Personal Perfume
Some people treat a signature scent as personal “luck,” so lending it feels like lending away good vibes.
A Small Safety Pin for “Protection”
A discreet pin on clothing can symbolize protection against envy during important meetings or first days.
Tuesday the 13th Caution
In Spanish-speaking tradition, martes 13 is treated as the “careful day,” so plans stay simple and stress stays low.
A New Plant for a New Job
Buying a small plant when starting a job symbolizes growth and steady learning, especially when cared for patiently.
Avoid Praise Without a “Shield”
When complimenting success, some add a quick protective phrase or gesture to avoid inviting envy into the moment.
Do Not Leave Brooms Crossing
Crossed cleaning tools are said to “cross” plans; keeping them parallel symbolizes smooth progress.
Love, Friendship & Family
Many Venezuelan superstitions about relationships focus on keeping affection steady and avoiding avoidable misunderstandings.
Think of them as folk reminders to act with care.
Red for Romance on New Year
Wearing red on New Year’s Eve is often linked with inviting love into the coming year, a popular tradition noted in Venezuelan cultural summaries.details
Yellow for Joy and Prosperity
Yellow clothing is treated as a bright symbol for prosperity and happiness during year-end celebrations.details
Under the Table at Midnight
A playful belief says sitting under the table during the countdown invites romantic luck—often done with laughter and family teasing.
Wearing Someone Else’s Wedding Outfit
Some avoid trying on another person’s wedding clothing, believing it can tangle your own path to commitment.
Gifting Shoes Can Mean “Walking Away”
A relationship superstition says shoes as a gift can lead someone to “walk away,” so people add a small coin to turn it into a purchase.
Tie a Ribbon for Loyalty
A tiny knot or ribbon on a shared item symbolizes steadiness in the bond, especially during long-distance phases.
Two Mirrors Facing Each Other
Some families avoid mirrors facing each other because it “multiplies” restless energy; angling one slightly feels calmer.
A Steady Candle Flame for a Wish
A steady flame is taken as a sign your wish is focused; the key is quiet intention and a peaceful space.
Do Not “Season” With Anger
An old saying warns that cooking while angry “seasons” the food with mood; many pause, breathe, then cook with calm.
Do Not Split a Pair of Friends
Squeezing between two people holding hands is said to “cut” closeness; people ask permission to keep bonds respected.
Accidentally Breaking a Plate
Rather than scolding, some say a broken plate “breaks” tension; you clean it up and move forward kindly.
Do Not Leave Soap as a Gift “Unpaid”
To avoid “washing away” luck, a tiny coin is sometimes exchanged so the gift becomes a trade.
Haircuts as a Symbol of Change
Many treat a haircut before a new chapter as symbolic, “cutting” the old and making space for fresh experiences.
A Random Hair on Your Clothes
Finding a stray hair on your sleeve is sometimes joked as someone missing you—an affectionate, lighthearted omen.
A Song Repeating “On Its Own”
When the same song keeps appearing, some say it is a sign to pay attention to your heart and stay open to connection.
Travel & Journeys
Travel superstitions are a highlight in Venezuela, especially at year-end. Many rituals aim to keep journeys
smooth and plans protected.
Suitcase Walk for Travel Luck
A popular New Year gesture is to carry a suitcase around the house or outside to invite a year full of travel.details
Do Not Turn Back After Leaving
If you must go back for something, many “neutralize” it by sitting briefly or touching a wall, then leaving with confidence.
Say Goodbye Outside, Not in the Doorway
A common rule says farewells are “cleaner” outside the threshold, keeping the journey light and the home energy steady.
A Small Charm in the Bag
Some travelers carry a tiny charm as a symbol of protection, especially on first-time routes or new adventures.
Documents Face the Same Direction
Organizing passport and tickets neatly is seen as a way to keep plans aligned, not scattered.
A Drop of Perfume Before Leaving
A quick spritz becomes a “seal” for the day, a small ritual of confidence before stepping out.
Touch the Map, Then the Heart
Some people tap a map or phone route and then touch their chest, as if asking for steady direction.
Coin in the Shoe (For a “Rich Path”)
A small coin tucked in the shoe symbolizes “walking into” prosperity, especially during the first outing of a new year.
Wish on a First Bridge
Crossing a bridge on a new trip can become a wish moment; the idea is to keep your mind hopeful and focused.
Do Not Pack in a Rush
Rushed packing is said to invite mix-ups; calm packing is treated as “travel luck” in action.
Cold Water for a Clear Start
Washing your face with cool water before a long trip is used as a symbol of clarity and alertness.
Do Not Sweep Right as Someone Leaves
Sweeping while a traveler is walking out is said to “sweep away” their luck; many wait until the goodbye is done.
Bird Crossing Your Path
A bird flying across your path can be read as a gentle sign of good news, encouraging optimism.
Carry Something Warm “Just in Case”
Packing a light scarf is treated as practical and symbolic: you are “prepared,” which itself is considered lucky.
First Step of the Trip Matters
Many begin a journey with a deliberate first step, aligning mind and body for a steady day.
Nature, Weather & Animals
Folk beliefs often treat animals as “messengers” and weather as mood. The tone is usually gentle and
hopeful.
Frogs “Announce” Rain
A loud frog chorus is taken as a sign rain is near, a reminder to keep plans flexible.
Cricket in the House
A cricket indoors is often treated as a sign of good luck or visitors; many guide it out gently instead of shooing it harshly.
Butterfly Visit
A butterfly drifting inside is commonly linked to news or a warm message; people open a window and let it pass calmly.
Bees as a Sign of Plenty
Bees near the home are seen as symbols of plenty and productive work, encouraging respect for their space.
A Bird Enters the House
A bird flying in is often read as a moment of important news; many guide it out gently to keep the sign “kind.”
Make a Wish at a Rainbow
A rainbow is treated as a natural “window” for wishes; people pause, breathe, and set a clear intention.
Ant Trail at the Door
Ants crossing the threshold can be interpreted as money moving, so people sweep carefully and keep the entry clean.
Spinning Leaves at Your Feet
A tiny swirl of leaves is seen as a sign of change; many take it as a reminder to stay adaptable.
Moonlight for New Intentions
A bright moon is treated as a good time to set intentions, especially for growth and personal consistency.
First Rain of the Season
Some believe the first rain “cleans” the air for the season; stepping outside briefly can symbolize a fresh start.
New Blossoms, New Opportunities
When a plant blooms unexpectedly, many take it as a sign of good openings and improved mood.
A Cat Washing Its Face
Some interpret a cat grooming its face as a hint that guests are coming, a prompt to keep the home welcoming.
House Gecko as a “Guardian”
A small gecko is often left alone and treated as a sign of protection, as if it “watches” the home quietly.
Dove Imagery for Peace
Seeing a dove (or keeping dove symbolism) is associated with peace at home, especially around family gatherings.
Sun After Storm as a “Green Light”
When clouds break and the sun returns, many take it as a sign to restart plans with confidence.
Body Signs & Everyday Omens
These are the quick “micro-superstitions” people mention in conversation: a twitch, an itch, a sneeze. They are usually interpreted
in a light, non-scary way.
Ringing Ears Mean Someone Mentions You
If your ears ring, people may say someone is talking about you; many respond with a quick smile and a kind thought.
Eyelid Twitch as a “Message”
An eye twitch is sometimes read as incoming news; many take it as a reminder to rest and stay attentive.
Sneezes Confirm a Statement
A common saying treats a sneeze right after you speak as “confirmation,” encouraging you to continue with confidence.
Hiccups Mean Someone Thinks of You
Hiccups can be jokingly linked to someone remembering you; a sip of water “resets” the sign and keeps the mood light.
Itchy Nose, Incoming Visitors
An itchy nose is often teased as a sign of visitors or a surprise greeting; it is a gentle prompt to be open.
Itchy Palms and Money Flow
A popular interpretation says one palm itching signals money coming, the other signals money going—either way, it suggests mindful spending.
Biting Your Tongue While Speaking
Accidentally biting your tongue is taken as a reminder to speak with care and avoid rushed words.
Forgetting a Name Means “Soon Meeting Again”
If you suddenly forget someone’s name, some say it means you will see them soon, turning an awkward moment into a friendly hope.
Loose Thread on Clothing
A dangling thread is sometimes seen as a sign of change; cutting it neatly is believed to “tidy” the day.
Finding a Feather
A feather on your path is often interpreted as gentle protection or encouragement to continue calmly.
Sew a Button Quickly
Losing a button can signal small disruptions; sewing it fast is treated as “closing” leaks and restoring order.
New Soap, New Cycle
Starting a week with a fresh bar of soap is treated as symbolic cleansing for a fresh mindset.
Chills Without Cold
Some interpret a sudden chill as your intuition “waking up,” a cue to breathe, slow down, and stay present.
Dreaming of Clear Water
Clear water in dreams is often connected to a calm period ahead, a folk sign of clarity and emotional ease.
Dreaming of Fruit
Fruit in dreams is frequently linked to abundance and reward, especially when the fruit looks ripe and bright.
Calendar Traditions (Especially New Year)
Venezuelan year-end traditions blend joy, symbolism, and family. Two of the best-known are the “12 grapes”
ritual and the suitcase walk for travel luck.details
These customs sit alongside many other small gestures meant to invite good fortune.
Twelve Grapes, Twelve Wishes
Eating one grape with each midnight chime symbolizes luck for each month, and many make a quiet wish per grape.
Lentils for Prosperity
Holding or eating lentils at midnight is treated as a magnet for money, since the shape resembles tiny coins.
Suitcase Around the Block
A quick suitcase walk symbolizes a year full of adventure and new destinations.
Yellow as a “Golden” Sign
Yellow is linked to abundance; even a small yellow accessory is thought to brighten the year’s outlook.
Clean House, Clear Path
Cleaning before New Year’s is seen as “making room” for better days, especially when done calmly as a family.
Open Windows at Midnight
Briefly opening windows is a symbolic way to let the new year “enter” with fresh air and intention.
Cash in Hand During the Countdown
Holding bills or coins at midnight is believed to invite financial steadiness for the months ahead.
A Pinch of Salt for “Reset”
Some sprinkle a tiny pinch of salt into cleaning water as a symbol of protection and a cleaner emotional slate.
First Meal of the Year Matters
Many try to start the year with a shared meal, believing togetherness sets the tone better than any single ritual.
A Light for the New Cycle
Lighting a candle during the countdown symbolizes guidance and clear thinking for the year.
Avoid Complaints on January 1
A common “start as you mean to go” superstition encourages gratitude on the first day to keep the year feeling lighter.
Write Wishes, Then Store Them
Some write wishes on paper and tuck them away as a private promise to the self, strengthening commitment.
A “Lucky” Outfit Repeat
Wearing a favorite outfit again after a great day is treated as keeping momentum—a modern superstition with a playful edge.
Music to Welcome the Year
Many Venezuelan celebrations lean on gaita and festive rhythms; starting the year with music is believed to invite joy.
Dance as a Symbol of Continuity
Dancing is sometimes treated as “moving energy forward,” echoing wider cultural traditions like joropo being celebrated as heritage.details
FAQ
Are these superstitions the same across all of Venezuela?
Many are widely shared, but families and regions add their own flavor. Coastal areas, the Andes, the Llanos, and big cities often keep
the same core ideas while changing the details.
Do people follow them seriously?
Often it is a mix: some rituals are playful, some feel comforting, and others are treated as “family rules.” The most common approach is
respectful, light, and practical.
What is the most famous Venezuelan superstition for visitors to know?
New Year’s traditions are especially visible: the 12 grapes, the suitcase walk,
and wearing bright colors for the year’s intention.
How can I document superstitions accurately?
Note the region, who shared it (grandparent, friend, neighbor), the setting (kitchen, doorway, celebration), and the “reason” people give.
That context is often more valuable than the superstition alone.
Can a superstition have more than one meaning?
Yes. The same sign can mean different things depending on family, neighborhood, or even the mood of the moment. That flexibility is part of
why these beliefs stay alive.
Sources
-
UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage — Decision on inscribing Joropo in Venezuela
(official UNESCO documentation on the element and its safeguarding framework) -
UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage — Carnival of El Callao (Representative List context)
(official UNESCO page highlighting the practice and community participation) -
Yale University CampusPress — Venezuela Culture Project: Venezuelan festivities and New Year traditions
(university-hosted cultural overview including New Year symbolism) -
Bard College (La Voz) — “Las supersticiones: ¿muertas o vivas?”
(campus publication discussing everyday superstition examples and how people interpret them) -
PublicHolidays.info — New Year’s Eve in Venezuela
(summary of common New Year customs like grapes and suitcase rituals) -
Wikipedia — Twelve Grapes
(background on the grape tradition and its spread through Spanish-speaking cultures)