In the United Kingdom, which song is commonly sung at midnight on New Year's Eve?

In the United Kingdom, “Auld Lang Syne” is commonly sung at midnight on New Year's Eve.

The song is based on a Scots poem associated with Robert Burns, who sent a version to the Scots Musical Museum in 1788. The title means “old long since,” or, more naturally, “for old times' sake.” Its lyrics ask whether old friendships and memories should be forgotten, making it a natural song for a year-end farewell.

Although strongly linked with Scotland, the song became an international New Year's standard. Its familiar melody is sung in many English-speaking countries and in numerous translated or adapted forms elsewhere.

The wording and tune are not entirely the product of Burns alone. Older Scots verses and melodies existed before his version, and later arrangements helped spread the song. “Auld Lang Syne” is therefore best understood as a popularized traditional song rather than a newly invented midnight anthem.