In the United Kingdom’s New Year’s Eve celebrations, “Auld Lang Syne” is traditionally sung at midnight. The song’s title is Scots for “old long since,” meaning times long past or old times.
The words are associated with the Scottish poet Robert Burns, who wrote down a version in 1788. Burns drew on older Scottish song and verse traditions rather than inventing every line from scratch. The familiar melody was paired with the words later.
The song spread internationally through Scottish communities and public celebrations. People often join hands in a circle while singing, although the exact custom varies by country and group.
Because many singers know only the first verse and chorus, lyrics can differ in performance. “Auld Lang Syne” is also used at farewells and other occasions, not only New Year’s Eve.