“Auld Lang Syne” is the traditional New Year's Eve countdown song most closely associated with the English-speaking world.
The lyrics are based largely on a Scots poem published by Robert Burns in 1788. The phrase “auld lang syne” means “old long since,” or, more naturally, “days gone by.” The song reflects on friendship, memory, and shared experiences, which explains its connection with farewells and the transition into a new year.
The melody and wording have circulated in several versions, and pronunciation varies internationally. It is commonly sung after midnight at New Year's celebrations, but it is also used at graduations, funerals, reunions, and other occasions marking an ending or departure.
The song is often described as Scottish, but its worldwide New Year's role is broader than Scotland. It should not be confused with “The Skye Boat Song,” another Scottish song that became famous much later and has a different historical subject.