Hogmanay is the name of Scotland’s major New Year’s Eve celebration.
The word refers to Scottish New Year festivities, especially the celebrations held on the evening of December 31 and into January 1. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay became internationally prominent through large public gatherings, torchlight events, concerts and a midnight fireworks display. Other Scottish communities also maintain their own local customs.
One traditional practice is first-footing. The first person to enter a home after midnight is expected to bring symbolic gifts, commonly including shortbread, coal or whisky, representing food, warmth and good cheer. The identity and appearance of the first visitor have also carried traditional meanings in different regions.
Hogmanay is not the same holiday as Burns Night, which honors poet Robert Burns on January 25, or St Andrew’s Day on November 30. Its customs combine seasonal celebration, hospitality and older Scottish winter traditions, with modern public parties now forming a major part of the event.