Which song traditionally plays at midnight during the Hogmanay celebration in Scotland?

Auld Lang Syne traditionally plays at midnight during Scotland's Hogmanay celebration.

The song is sung at New Year's gatherings in Scotland and in many other countries. Its Scots title means “old long since” or, more naturally, “for old times' sake.” The familiar lyrics are based chiefly on a poem published by Robert Burns in 1788, though Burns indicated that he had collected and adapted older material rather than inventing every element himself.

At midnight, people commonly join hands in a circle while singing the song, often crossing their arms during the final verse. Its use is not limited to Scotland: it has become a global farewell-to-the-old-year tradition, with local translations and arrangements. The melody and wording can vary, and many singers know only the chorus. It is distinct from Scotland's national anthem and from songs associated with the country's other festivals.