The Scottish celebrates the arrival of the New Year in their own way, called Hogmanay is the biggest winter celebration in Scotland.
The roots of Hogmanay perhaps go back to the celebration of the winter solstice among the Norse, incorporating also some customs of the Gaelic celebration of Samhain. The Vikings celebrated Yule, which later contributed to the Twelve Days of Christmas, or the “Daft Days”, as they were sometimes called in Scotland.
Hogmanay celebrations can vary across Scotland but generally include offering gifts and visiting friends and neighbors in their homes.
The most widespread custom is the practice of the first foot, which begins immediately after midnight. This involves being the first person to cross the threshold of a friend or neighbor and often involves offering symbolic gifts such as salt (less common today), cookies, whiskey and black bun (a cake rich in fruit), designed to bring different sorts of luck for the breadwinner.
Neeps and tatties
Hogmanay’s traditional dish is haggis, accompanied by neeps (parsnips) and tatties (potato). Mashed with butter until smooth and creamy.
“Auld Lang Syne”
The tradition of singing “Auld Lang Syne” at Hogmanay has become common in many countries. “Auld Lang Syne” is a Scottish poem by Robert Burns. It is common to be sung in a circle of arm in arm that is crossed over each other when the clock strikes midnight for New Year’s Day.
Celebrate Christmas & Hogmanay with MGM Muthu Hotels
Revisit our article to find all about our Scottish hotels or www.muthuhotelsmgm.com for the latest offers and best rates available.
