Auld Lang Syne is traditionally sung at midnight in many English-speaking New Year celebrations.
The song uses a Scots phrase meaning “old long since,” commonly understood as referring to times gone by or old friendships. Its lyrics are associated with the Scottish poet Robert Burns, who wrote down and adapted verses in 1788.
The familiar melody became widely connected with New Year’s Eve during the twentieth century. It is now performed at midnight in countries including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, although customs vary from place to place.
The song is not exclusively a New Year piece. It may also be used at farewells, funerals, graduations, and other occasions marking an ending or transition. Different versions contain different verses, so performances do not always use the same lyrics.