Hogmanay is the Scottish name for the New Year’s Eve celebration featuring first-footing traditions.
The word refers broadly to Scottish New Year customs and festivities, not just one particular street party. Celebrations can include torchlight processions, singing, dancing, fireworks, and visits between households. The exact history of the term is uncertain, and proposed explanations have connected it with Scots, French, Norse, and Gaelic influences.
First-footing is one of the best-known customs. The first person to enter a home after midnight is traditionally expected to bring symbolic gifts such as whisky, shortbread, coal, or salt. In some versions of the tradition, a tall, dark-haired male visitor is considered especially lucky, though modern practice varies considerably.
Hogmanay is often confused with Burns Night, which is held on January 25 to celebrate poet Robert Burns. St Andrew’s Day, Scotland’s national day, occurs on November 30. These are distinct dates and celebrations.