Hogmanay is the Scottish term for the New Year's Eve celebration traditionally associated with Scotland.
The word refers both to the final day of the old year and to the customs surrounding the arrival of the new one. Its exact origin is uncertain, and scholars have proposed Scandinavian, French, Gaelic, and Middle English influences. No single etymology is universally accepted.
Modern Hogmanay celebrations combine public festivities with household traditions. Edinburgh's events have included torchlight processions, street parties, concerts, and fireworks, making the city a major international New Year's destination. Other Scottish communities celebrate with local gatherings, music, dancing, and fires.
A famous custom is first-footing: the first person to enter a home after midnight is traditionally expected to bring good fortune, sometimes symbolized by gifts such as whisky, shortbread, coal, or salt. The song “Auld Lang Syne” is also strongly associated with Scottish New Year celebrations, although it is not exclusive to Scotland.