Hogmanay is the Scottish New Year's Eve celebration named for the final day of the year.
The word refers both to December 31 and to the broader Scottish festivities surrounding the turn of the year. Its exact linguistic origin is uncertain. Proposed explanations have connected it with Scots, French, Norse, Gaelic, and medieval languages, so no single etymology is universally accepted.
Hogmanay customs vary across Scotland. They include singing Robert Burns's “Auld Lang Syne,” first-footing, fire festivals, torch processions, street parties, and gatherings with family and friends. Edinburgh hosts one of the world's best-known large-scale Hogmanay programs, but celebrations also take place in communities throughout the country.
Hogmanay became especially prominent after Christmas celebrations were restricted in Scotland during parts of the Reformation era. In later centuries, New Year's customs remained particularly strong in Scottish social life. Burns Night instead honors poet Robert Burns on January 25, while St Andrew's Day honors Scotland's patron saint on November 30, making them distinct occasions.