As the world prepares to shed all that was from last year and embrace the promise of a new beginning, a vibrant symbol of hope and prosperity emerges on tables across diverse cultures: the strawberry. Its succulent sweetness transcends mere culinary delight, embodying themes of abundance, renewal, and the sweet joys anticipated in the year to come.

Take, for instance, the French tradition of “les voeux,” small, iced cakes shaped like strawberries, representing wishes for a fruitful new year. Or in Italy, where the vibrant red fruit graces the table alongside Cotechino con Lenticchie, a sausage and lentil dish symbolizing prosperity. Even in Denmark, where fate is tested by the toss of unblemished strawberries, each landing stem-side up signifying a stroke of good luck in the coming months.