Scotland: New Year's Holiday

Quick Facts

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2024 Date	2 January 2024

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Scotland: New Year's Holiday in 2024

Tuesday, 2 Jan

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Scotland: New Year's Holiday History

Scotland's New Year Holiday marks the end of the year and the beginning of the upcoming year. Carrying both deep cultural significance and global recognition, the observance is characterised by lively festivities, rich traditions, and a palpable spirit of community. Across Scotland, people come together to reflect on the past year and welcome in the new with an array of activities, performances, and events designed to foster connection and a sense of belonging.

The origins of Hogmanay can be traced back to the Norse and Gaelic winter solstice festivals, which later amalgamated with Roman elements after the arrival of Christianity in Scotland. Over time, the holiday has evolved into an important cultural touchstone for the United Kingdom, not only for its historical significance but also because it showcases Scotland's vibrant heritage and diverse aesthetic. With a range of experiences to immerse oneself in, from large-scale gatherings and fire-lit processions to intimate family moments and delicious culinary offerings, Hogmanay invites people from all corners of the UK to partake in the enchantment of Scottish culture.

United Kingdom residents can expect a dazzling array of customs and activities taking place during the New Year's Holiday in Scotland. Some of the most beloved traditions include attending torchlit parades, indulging in a hearty 'first-footing', and witnessing breathtaking firework displays blazing across picturesque landscapes. A unique blend of old-world customs and contemporary celebrations, Hogmanay offers a tapestry of experiences that captivate the heart and spark the imagination. Though taking place between the 31st of December and the 2nd of January, the festivities are most noteworthy on New Year's Eve, providing visitors and residents alike with a memorable and inspiring start to the new year.

Scotland: New Year's Holiday Facts

More than 30,000 people attended the world-famous Hogmanay street party in Edinburgh for the 2023 New Year Celebration
Scotland's 2020 New Year celebrations included the use of sophisticated AI drone software. The drone-show pioneers Celestial used their drones to reach altitudes up to 150m. At speeds up to 25mph, the drones formed images and depictions across the night sky.
It is believed that the tradition of Hogmanay originated in the 8th and 9th century from invading Vikings arriving in Scotland. It's said that the Vikings paid close attention to the arrival of the Winter Solstice and observed its passing with many celebrations.
Fire festivals held during Hogmanay symbolize the burning of the old year and welcoming the new one. They often feature torch-lit processions, fireball swinging, or other fire-related ceremonies to chase away evil spirits and purify the community for the coming year.
In the town of Burghead in Moray, locals celebrate the New Year by carrying a burning barrel filled with wood shavings on their heads through the streets of the town. This ancient tradition is thought to date back to the 1700s.
First-footing is a tradition where people visit their friends and neighbors after midnight to wish them a good New Year. The first person to enter a house after midnight is called the 'first-footer', and it is believed that they bring luck for the household, with a tall, dark-haired man considered luckiest.

Scotland: New Year's Holiday Top Events and Things to Do

Sign up for information and exclusive content about the next Hogmanay celebration.
Explore photos and videos from 2020's Hogmanay celebrations.
Watch Edinburgh's Hogmanay 2020 celebration if you missed it.
For a traditional Scottish experience, attend a ceilidh – a social event with traditional folk music, dancing, and storytelling – on New Year's Eve. Many cities and towns across Scotland host these.
Another great place to be during New Year's Eve is Stirling, where an elaborate fireworks display is held at the iconic Stirling Castle, along with live music and entertainment.