A first-footer is the first person to enter a home after midnight on New Year’s Eve in Scottish tradition.
The practice is called first-footing and is especially associated with Hogmanay, Scotland’s New Year celebration. The first visitor is traditionally expected to bring good fortune for the household’s coming year. Customs differ by region and family, but gifts commonly include food, drink, coal, salt, or other useful items.
In some versions of the tradition, a tall, dark-haired man was considered a particularly lucky first-footer. This belief is often explained through historical associations with Viking raiders, although modern practice is much less rigid. The visitor may be a friend, neighbour, or relative.
First-footing is related to Hogmanay but is not another name for the entire festival. Hogmanay includes many customs, such as singing, fireworks, torchlight processions, and the song “Auld Lang Syne.”