Which song is played at midnight during Scotland’s Hogmanay celebrations?

“Auld Lang Syne” is played or sung at midnight during Scotland’s Hogmanay celebrations. The Scots song’s theme of remembering old friendships makes it a natural musical bridge between the outgoing and incoming years.

Hogmanay is the Scottish name for New Year’s Eve and the associated celebrations. Customs vary by place, but gatherings commonly include a countdown, singing, dancing, fireworks, and first-footing—the tradition of visiting a home after midnight. “Auld Lang Syne” is not exclusive to Scotland; it became a global New Year standard in English-speaking communities and beyond.

The song’s words are linked to the Scottish poet Robert Burns, who published a version in 1796. “Auld lang syne” means “old long since,” referring to days gone by. Scotland the Brave and Flower of Scotland are strongly associated with Scottish identity, but neither is the standard midnight song asked for here.