The 18th-century Scottish poem traditionally sung at midnight on New Year's Eve in many countries is “Auld Lang Syne.”
The song is based on a poem recorded and expanded by Robert Burns in 1788. Its title uses Scots words meaning “old long since,” commonly understood as referring to times long past or old friendships. The lyrics ask whether old acquaintances and former times should be forgotten, making the song a natural fit for a reflective year-end gathering.
The familiar melody was paired with Burns's words and spread internationally through Scottish communities, social clubs, and public celebrations. Guy Lombardo's broadcasts helped establish the song as a recurring part of American New Year's Eve culture during the 20th century, after which it became familiar in many countries.
It is not exclusively a New Year's song: people also sing it at farewells, reunions, memorials, and other transitions. Pronunciations and verses vary, but the title and melody remain widely recognizable.