National Black-Eyed Peas Day - A Southern Tradition of Good Luck for the New Year

Observed on January 1, National Black-Eyed Peas Day celebrates a dish deeply rooted in Southern American tradition, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead. The practice of eating black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day is believed to date back to the Civil War era, when Union troops left only this crop behind in the South. Today, this humble legume is associated with resilience and luck, making it a cherished part of New Year’s meals, often served with collard greens (symbolizing money) and cornbread (representing gold).

Black-eyed peas are typically prepared in hearty dishes, such as Hoppin' John—a savory blend of peas, rice, and seasonings—that has become a staple in Southern households. Over time, this tradition has extended beyond the South, with families across the U.S. enjoying black-eyed peas as part of their New Year’s celebrations.