The traditional Scottish New Year's Eve celebration that includes first-footing is Hogmanay.
Hogmanay is the Scottish name for New Year's Eve and, by extension, the surrounding celebrations. Its customs include singing “Auld Lang Syne,” torchlight events, fire traditions, and first-footing. In first-footing, the first person to enter a household after midnight is traditionally expected to bring symbolic gifts such as coal, shortbread, salt, or whisky.
Historically, New Year held unusual importance in Scotland because Christmas was not widely celebrated as a public holiday for much of the post-Reformation period. New Year customs therefore became especially prominent in Scottish social life.
Modern Hogmanay events range from family gatherings to large public festivals, but customs vary by region and household. First-footing is not a universal rule and may be practiced differently today. Hogmanay is also broader than the well-known street festival in Edinburgh; celebrations take place throughout Scotland.