Hogmanay
Hogmanay (/ˈhɒɡməneɪ, ˌhɒɡməˈneɪ/ HOG-mə-nay, -NAY, Scots: [ˌhɔɡməˈneː]) is the Scots word for the last day of the old year and is synonymous with the celebration of the New Year in the Scottish manner. It is normally followed by further celebration on the morning of New Year's Day (1 January) and, in some cases, 2 January—a Scottish bank holiday. In a few contexts, the word Hogmanay is used more loosely to describe the entire period consisting of the last few days of the old year and the first few days of the new year. For instance, not all events held under the banner of Edinburgh's Hogmanay take place on 31 December.
| Hogmanay | |
|---|---|
Fireworks for Edinburgh's Hogmanay | |
| Official name | Hogmanay |
| Also called | "Daft days" |
| Observed by | Scots |
| Type | National |
| Significance | The final day of the Gregorian calendar year |
| Celebrations | Reflection; late-night partying; family gatherings; feasting; gift exchanges; fireworks; countdowns; watchnight services; social gatherings, during which participants may dance, eat, consume alcoholic beverages, and watch or light fireworks |
| Begins | 31 December |
| Ends | 1 January |
| Date | 31 December |
| Frequency | Annual |
| Related to | New Year's Eve |
| Part of a series on the |
| Culture of Scotland |
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The origins of Hogmanay are unclear, but it may be derived from Norse and Gaelic observances of the winter solstice. Customs vary throughout Scotland and usually include gift-giving and visiting the homes of friends and neighbours, with particular attention given to the first-foot, the first guest of the new year.