Scotland's traditional New Year's Eve celebration is called Hogmanay.
Hogmanay includes customs that vary across Scotland, including torchlight processions, street parties, singing, and “first-footing.” In that custom, the first person to enter a home after midnight is expected to bring good fortune, traditionally with symbolic gifts such as coal, shortbread, or whisky.
The word's exact origin is uncertain. Scholars have proposed Scandinavian, French, Gaelic, and other linguistic influences, reflecting Scotland's long cultural history. Modern Hogmanay celebrations combine older customs with large public events.
Hogmanay is often confused with Burns Night, which honors poet Robert Burns on January 25. They are separate occasions: Hogmanay welcomes the new year, while Burns Night celebrates Burns's life and work.