Hogmanay is Scotland's New Year's celebration, known for first-footing, singing, fires, and torchlight processions.
The word refers to the Scottish observance of New Year's Eve and the surrounding festivities. In first-footing, the first person to enter a home after midnight traditionally brings symbolic gifts such as whisky, shortbread, coal, or salt. A dark-haired male visitor was historically considered especially lucky in some regions, though modern celebrations are generally more inclusive.
Large public events take place in cities including Edinburgh, where torchlight processions, concerts, and street parties form part of the celebration. The song Auld Lang Syne is also strongly associated with Scottish identity and New Year gatherings worldwide. Hogmanay customs vary across Scotland, and some have roots in older winter fire and folk traditions rather than in one single historical source.