First-footing is the Scottish New Year's Eve custom in which the first visitor to a home after midnight is believed to affect its luck.
The first person to cross a household's threshold after midnight is called the first-foot. Traditional beliefs often favored a tall, dark-haired man, while a fair-haired visitor could be viewed less favorably in some historical accounts because of Viking-era associations. Modern practice varies widely and is generally more social than superstitious.
A first-footer may bring symbolic gifts such as coal for warmth, shortbread or other food for plenty, salt, and whisky. The visitor is welcomed into the home, and the exchange expresses hopes for prosperity and friendship in the new year.
First-footing is related to Hogmanay, the broad Scottish New Year celebration, but the two terms are not interchangeable. Hogmanay names the celebration itself; first-footing names the threshold custom. Local traditions differ, so not every household follows the same visitor or gift rules.