Celebrate
Hogmanay
Hogmanay is the Scottish reference to the last day of the calendar year. It's a time to raise a toast of The Macallan to the New Year, of celebration with friends and family. This special time of year holds a number of traditions unique to Scotland.
31st December
Auld Lang Syne
A poem by famous Scottish poet Robert Burns and put to a traditional folk tune, Auld Lang Syne is famous across the world. The phrase can be translated as 'old long since', and is considered a call to remember old friendships.
Widely sung during Hogmanay at the stroke of midnight, it's a way to bid farewell to the old year, welcoming in the new.
“Should auld acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot and auld lang syne
For auld lang syne, my jo, for auld lang syne,
We’ll tak' a cup o' kindness yet, for auld lang syne.”
1st January
First Footing
“First Footing” is another popular Scottish tradition, meaning to be the first to enter into a friend or loved one’s home after midnight in the new year.
There are a number of symbolic gifts the first foot traditionally brings, including a piece of coal, shortbread, a black bun, salt and a dram of whisky.
While not many bring these specific items today, gift giving is still a tradition, and is said to bring good luck for the year ahead.
Enjoy
