Scottish Hogmanay Traditions: A Guide to Scotland’s New Year Customs
29/12/2025

New Year or Hogmanay, as we proudly call it in Scotland, is a night steeped in tradition, celebration and great fun. We might be biased, but Scotland is undoubtedly one of the most iconic places in the world to ring in the bells. Below, explore some of our favourite Scottish Hogmanay traditions. Who knows, you might even adopt a few for your own celebrations!

What does Hogmanay mean?

Whilst there is no official answer for the origin of the word ‘Hogmanay’ it is believed that it could be from Norman French descent. It is also said that it could have derived from the Vikings connecting the word ‘Hoggo-nott’ which is an Old Norse word for ‘Yuletide’. According to the New World Encyclopaedia, the earliest known form of the word appears in a 1443 Latin record from Yorkshire, and its first appearance in Scots is recorded in Elgin in 1604.

Origin of Hogmanay

Hogmanay is believed to have grown from ancient winter solstice celebrations, where fire, feasting and cleansing rituals marked the turning of the year. Later influences from Viking midwinter traditions blended with Scottish folklore, creating the unique New Year customs we celebrate today.

First Footing

First Footing marks the arrival of the first visitor to cross your threshold after midnight. It’s a cherished ritual that takes place after the bells, and it’s believed to set the tone for the year ahead.

Traditionally, the first-footer must be outside before midnight and only enter once the clock strikes twelve. They often bring symbolic gifts such as:

• A lump of coal to represent warmth
• Salt for prosperity
• Black bun as good food
• Shortbread as hospitality
• A dram of whisky for good cheer

Together, these offerings are said to bring luck and abundance for the coming year.

Redding

Redding is all about clearing out the old to welcome the new. In the days leading up to Hogmanay, many Scots clean their homes, settle bills and tie up loose ends. Entering the New Year with a tidy house and a clean slate is believed to invite good fortune and avoid bad luck.

Hogmanay Celebrations

Scotland’s Hogmanay celebrations are legendary, and each region brings its own flair.

Edinburgh Hogmanay

One of the world’s most famous New Year festivals, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay features street parties, concerts, torchlight processions and a spectacular firework display over the castle.

Stonehaven Fireballs

In Stonehaven, locals parade along the High Street swinging blazing fireballs above their heads, a dramatic and ancient tradition said to ward off evil spirits. It is widely regarded as one of the oldest fire‑based New Year rituals still performed today.

Biggar Bonfire

In Biggar, South Lanarkshire, a massive bonfire is lit to symbolise the burning away of the old year. The event includes a torchlight parade accompanied by pipers and drummers.

Loony Dook

On New Year’s Day, brave souls take part in the ‘Loony Dook’, plunging into the freezing Firth of Forth, often in fancy dress.

Ceilidh

No Hogmanay celebration is complete without a ceilidh. Lively music, energetic dancing and plenty of laughter make it a highlight of the night. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, ceilidhs are all about fun and community.

Auld Lang Syne

Written by Robert Burns, Auld Lang Syne is one of the world’s most recognisable songs. After the bells, people join hands in a circle and sing together, a moment of unity, nostalgia and joy that beautifully captures the spirit of Hogmanay. The sentiment is about honouring old friendships and looking forward with hope.

Hogmanay Food and Drink

• Haggis – a hearty Scottish classic, often served with neeps and tatties.

• Steak Pie – a traditional New Year’s Day favourite, rich and warming.

• Black Bun – a dense fruit cake wrapped in pastry, symbolising prosperity.

• A dram of Scotch whisky – raised in a toast to welcome the year ahead

• Tablet – a sweet, crumbly Scottish treat made from sugar, butter and condensed milk.

• Shortbread – a perfect offering for guests and for First Footing

As the bells prepare to ring us into a brand‑new year, we hope these Scottish Hogmanay traditions bring a little extra magic to your celebrations. Whether you’re first footing, singing Auld Lang Syne or simply sharing good food with loved ones, may 2026 be a year filled with luck, laughter and new beginnings. From all of us at Little’s – Happy Hogmanay and a very Happy New Year when it comes!