Customs And Traditions Of Hogmanay

Singing Auld Lang Syne

One of the most well-known traditions of more modern Hogmanay celebrations is the singing of “Auld Lang Syne,” a poem written by the Scottish poet Robert Burns in the 18th century. The title of the poem can be translated as “old long since,” or “days gone by,” and it reflects on the passage of time and the importance of friendship and nostalgia. The poem has been set to music, and it is traditionally sung at Hogmanay celebrations as a way of bidding farewell to the old year and welcoming in the new one.

During Hogmanay celebrations, it is common for people to join hands in a circle and sing “Auld Lang Syne” as the clock strikes midnight. The song has become an integral part of Hogmanay traditions, and it is often used as a way to bring people together and celebrate the New Year with a sense of camaraderie and shared history. In addition to being sung at Hogmanay celebrations, “Auld Lang Syne” has also become a popular song at New Year’s Eve celebrations around the world.

First Footing

One of the most iconic traditions of Hogmanay is the “first-footing” custom.  As friends visit a household at Hogmanay, to ensure good luck for the house, the first person across the threshold after midnight should be a dark-haired male bearing symbolic pieces of coal, shortbread, salt, black bun and a wee dram of whisky. The tradition of the dark-haired male is believed to harken back to the Viking age, when a big blonde stranger arriving on your door step with a big axe meant big trouble, and probably not a very happy New Year!  Today, the “first-footing” custom remains an important and beloved part of Hogmanay celebrations in Scotland.

Fire and Light As Symbols Of Renewal and Purification

Stonehaven Fireballs Parade

In many cultures, fire has long been seen as a powerful force that has the ability to cleanse and purify, and it is often used in rituals and ceremonies to mark the start of a new year or a new cycle. During traditional Hogmanay celebrations, people would dress up in the hides of cattle and run around the village while being hit with sticks. Bonfires and torches were also lit as part of the festivities. The smoke produced by ignited sticks wrapped in animal hide was believed to be effective in warding off evil spirits, and these smoking sticks were known as Hogmanays.

Many of these customs, such as the use of sheep skins and bannocks, continue to be observed in the older communities of the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, particularly on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides. During Hogmanay celebrations, young men and boys form opposing bands and move through the village from house to house reciting Gaelic rhymes. The leader of each band wears a sheep skin, while another member carries a sack, and they are given bannocks as they go from house to house.

Fireworks, which were introduced to Hogmanay celebrations in the 19th century, have become a staple of the holiday, with displays taking place in cities and towns across Scotland.

In addition to bonfires and fireworks, the use of candles and torches is also common during Hogmanay celebrations. These sources of light are often used to symbolize the arrival of the new year and to chase away any remaining negativity from the old year.

Gift-giving And Charitable Acts

During the holiday, it is common for people to exchange gifts with their friends and loved ones, often in the form of small tokens or treats. These gifts are seen as a way of expressing goodwill and wishing others a happy and prosperous new year.

In addition to gift-giving, charitable acts are also an important part of Hogmanay traditions. Many people use the holiday as an opportunity to give back to their community and help those in need. This can take the form of donating money or food to charitable organizations, volunteering time to help others, or simply showing kindness and compassion to those around them.

Ceilidh Dancing and Other Festive Activities

Ceilidh dancing, which is a traditional form of Scottish folk dancing, is often featured at Hogmanay parties and events, and is a fun and energetic way for people to celebrate the holiday. Ceilidh dancing involves a variety of lively dances that are easy to learn and suitable for all ages, and it is a popular activity that helps to bring people together and create a sense of community.

In addition to ceilidh dancing, there are many other festive activities that are often enjoyed during Hogmanay celebrations. These may include games, singing, and other forms of entertainment, such as live music or comedy performances. Many Hogmanay parties and events also feature food and drink, with traditional Scottish dishes and beverages being particularly popular.