Interesting Things with JC #507: "New Year's Danish Plate Smashing" - The tradition of plate-smashing on New Year's Eve is a popular and beloved custom in Denmark, where people throw unwanted plates and dishes at the front doors of friends and family for good luck. The tradition is believed to have originated in the 19th century as a way to let go of old grudges and start the new year with a clean slate, and has evolved from an older tradition of ringing bells on New Year's Eve to ward off evil spirits.