New York City's Times Square New Year's Eve celebration traditionally follows midnight with the singing of “Auld Lang Syne.”
The song is based on a Scots poem written by Robert Burns in 1788, although Burns drew on earlier Scottish songs and verses. Its title is Scots for “old long since,” commonly understood as referring to old times or longtime friendship.
“Auld Lang Syne” became strongly associated with New Year's celebrations through the work of bandleader Guy Lombardo and the Royal Canadians. Their radio broadcasts made the song a familiar part of American midnight celebrations during the 20th century.
The song is not exclusive to New Year's Eve: it is also used at farewells, graduations, memorials, and other closing ceremonies. The melody and wording can vary internationally, but the familiar English-language version remains the standard in Times Square.