Hogmanay Facts for Kids
Duration: Hogmanay is celebrated annually on December 31st (New Year’s Eve) and continues into January 1st (New Year’s Day).
Origin: The origins of Hogmanay are unclear, but many believe the celebrations are influenced by ancient Norse and Gaelic observances of the winter solstice.
Fire Festivals: Many Scottish cities host spectacular fire festivals as part of their Hogmanay celebrations. The Torchlight Procession and the spectacular fireworks display over Edinburgh Castle located in the Capital of Scotland attract visitors from around the world every year.
Traditional Foods: Hogmanay is celebrated with a variety of traditional foods, including haggis (a meat dish), neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes), black bun (a rich fruit cake), and more.
Auld Lang Syne Tradition: The singing of “Auld Lang Syne” at the stroke of midnight is a globally recognized New Year’s tradition, that originated in Scotland during Hogmanay. The song, written by Scottish poet Robert Burns, reflects on the passage of time and the importance of preserving old friendships.
First-Footing: First footing is a traditional Hogmanay practice where the first person to enter a home after midnight on New Year’s Eve brings gifts like whisky, shortbread, or coins. These gifts are meant to symbolize good fortune for the household in the coming year.