HOGMANAY

Scottish New Year celebration

Scotland welcomes in the New Year with unparalleled fervor and energy during "Hogmanay". Famous throughout the country, this celebration attracts visitors from all over the world to take part in an authentic Scottish experience.

Hogmanay festivities stretch over several days, often beginning on December 30 and continuing through to January 1. Night-time activities take center stage, with street events, concerts, fireworks and lively parties lasting until dawn.

The "First-Footing" tradition and its symbolism

An emblematic tradition of Hogmanay is that of "First-Footing". This involves being the first visitor to cross the threshold of a house after midnight. The person brings symbolic gifts such as coal for warmth, bread for food, a coin for wealth and a drink for health. This practice is loaded with symbolism, bringing good luck and prosperity to the home in the New Year.

The atmosphere at Hogmanay is electric, with a vibrant mix of traditional music, lively dancing and non-stop festivities. Streets are transformed into gathering places where Scots and visitors come together to share their joy and enthusiasm for the year ahead. This celebration embodies Scotland's warmth, hospitality and community spirit, creating a strong link between past and present.

Hogmanay is much more than a simple New Year's celebration in Scotland. It's a living testament to the country's rich culture, an opportunity to strengthen community ties and share joy with the world. This age-old tradition offers an authentic immersion in Scottish culture and marks the start of the year with an energy and conviviality unique to this ancestral land.