Gambling Superstitions
Millions of people gamble around the world, and most players understand—or should understand—that luck plays a central role in many casino games.
No guide or strategy can guarantee a win, which helps explain the appeal of superstition. These beliefs are not always individual habits: customs and rituals have been passed down through communities for centuries, with certain actions thought to attract good fortune.
Which gambling superstitions are still familiar in casinos? This guide looks at beliefs from lucky numbers to unusual routines, including what an itchy hand is thought to mean.
Lucky Numbers & Colours
Across gambling traditions, 7 has often been associated with luck, prosperity and wealth. This belief carried over to slot machines, where classic games commonly used 777 symbols as a jackpot combination. Though the number is linked to good luck in many regions, Australia is an exception: during a visit to Australia, saying 7 is considered unlucky. The linked text remains game of Craps.
Red is another colour many gamblers consider lucky, just as seven is viewed as a fortunate number in much of the world. The association is particularly strong among people of Chinese background, for whom red can symbolize prosperity. Some casino visitors wear something red in hopes of improving their luck, often choosing red underwear.
Rituals
Rituals are part of gambling, sports and everyday routines. After a win, some players stick to the same schedule or style of play, fearing that a change could end their lucky streak. Familiar examples include blowing on dice, knocking on wood, arranging chips in a particular pattern and kissing a companion before placing a bet.
Some players leave a table after placing a bet, while others look away from the outcome, in a casino or during online play. Avoiding particular actions is another common superstition. In some parts of the world, counting money at the table is thought to bring bad luck and may also be considered unprofessional.
Other Familiar Superstitions
Customs differ across cultures, and a practice that comforts one gambler may seem unacceptable to another. Strong beliefs can accompany gambling: hoping for a win, people may adopt habits they think will improve their chances. Here are a few more beliefs associated with casinos in different parts of the world:
The Itchy Hand
Beliefs about an itchy palm differ in Bulgaria and Serbia. In Bulgaria, an itchy right palm is considered a bad omen, and people are advised not to bet. In Serbia, an itchy left hand is associated with good luck, so some may see it as a positive sign before placing a wager.
The MGM Lion’s Mouth
Chinese visitors objected to the prominent entrance of the MGM casino in Vegas, which was shaped like a large lion’s mouth. They interpreted entering through its jaws as being swallowed whole, a symbol of losing all their money. MGM responded to the concerns by changing the entrance design.
Lending Money
Giving someone else money to gamble with is often seen as tempting fate. Some believe it could double the loss if their own luck turns bad. Many gamblers therefore avoid lending money or accepting it from others. According to this belief, each person should gamble only with their own funds.
Crossing Your Legs
In many countries, crossed fingers are considered a lucky gesture in everyday life. But some believe crossing your legs during a casino visit could “cross out” the good luck still to come. Fingers crossed may be fine, but believers might think twice before crossing their legs, even if it feels more comfortable.
