The traditional Scottish song-and-dance party held during Hogmanay is called a ceilidh.
A ceilidh is a social gathering featuring Scottish or Irish traditional music, dancing, and storytelling. Modern ceilidhs often use a live band and a caller who explains the steps, allowing beginners to join group dances.
Hogmanay ceilidhs can be held in public halls, outdoor festival spaces, hotels, and private homes. Dances may involve lines, circles, or changing partners, so the event is social rather than a performance watched silently by an audience.
The word is Scottish Gaelic in origin and is now used in English as well. Spelling and pronunciation can vary in English-language writing, but “ceilidh” is the standard answer for the gathering. It should not be confused with a ceilidh band, which is the musical group providing the accompaniment.