Scottish New Year - Celebrate Hogmanay

Dear Diary,

Once Christmas is behind us, all eyes are on the big New Year celebrations. And these are taken very seriously here in Scotland. 

We even have our own name for it: Hogmanay.

However, the origin of the word is unknown. But some argue that it has French roots and was brought over by Mary Queen of Scots’ return from France in 1561. The French word “hoginane” translates to “gala day”. 

And the best part, because we love celebrating so much, we turned the 2nd of January into a bank holiday. 

Here are some Scottish Hogmanay traditions celebrated on New Year. 

1) First Footing

Probably the most common New Year’s traditions in Scotland. As soon as the clock strikes midnight people start visiting their loved ones. 

The first footer describes the first person to enter your home in the new year. It’s said that this person sets the tone for the upcoming year. So it better be a good one! Usually, you welcome them with a wee dram and offer them some fruitcake or black bun (fruitcake covered in pastry).

Be aware though, that hair colour matters here. A dark-haired man brings the best luck. They usually brought the most valuable gifts, such as coal, whisky, shortbread, and salt. 

2) Auld Lang Syne

It’s one of the most popular songs in Scotland, some even call it our national anthem - Auld Lang Syne by Robert Burns.

At midnight people gather in a circle and hold hands to sing Auld Lang Syne. In the last verse, you cross your arms over your chest without breaking hands with your neighbour. And at the end of the song, everyone comes to the middle of the circle.

3) Sea dipping

On New Year’s Day, you can see brave people running into the ice-cold water of the stormy sea. Call them crazy but it is said to be the best hangover cure. I have yet to try it.

The biggest sea dipping event, also called Loony Dooks, takes place at North Queensferry.  The Dookers usually wear fancy dress. It’s all in the name, loony refers to “lunatic” and dook is the Scottish word for “dip” or “bathe”.

4) Fire ceremonies

No pagan festival without a proper fire ceremony. Fire symbolises the newly resurgent sun finally making its comeback and also helps to ward off evil spirits. 

You’ll find bonfires and torchlight processions all across the country, alongside modern firework displays.

In Stonehaven, near Aberdeen, men and women swing gigantic flaming balls on long mental poles up and down the high street. The fireballs weigh up to 10kg!