Hogmanay is the Scottish name for traditional New Year's Eve celebrations across Scotland.
The word refers both to December 31 and to the wider customs surrounding the Scottish New Year. Its exact origin is disputed, with proposed connections to French, Norse, Gaelic, and Scots terms. The uncertainty reflects Scotland's layered linguistic and cultural history rather than a lack of evidence that the celebration is longstanding.
Hogmanay customs include singing “Auld Lang Syne,” first-footing, street parties, torchlight processions, and traditional foods such as black bun. In first-footing, the first person to enter a home after midnight is expected to bring good fortune, sometimes symbolized by gifts including coal, shortbread, or whisky.
Hogmanay is not simply another name for Christmas. Scotland historically gave New Year a particularly prominent place in the winter calendar, and many celebrations continue through January 1 and January 2, which are public holidays in Scotland.