It’s the 31st of December, and it’s time to say goodbye to 2023. Here in Scotland, we’re gearing up for Hogmanay (check out an old Things in Scots post to hear it in use in the Scots Leid!). Hogmanay isn’t just a night of partying. It’s a time steeped in history, traditions, and a communal spirit that chases away the chill of the night.
The Heart of Hogmanay
Sure, Hogmanay is about saying goodbye to the year gone by. But, it’s also about welcoming the new with hope, warmth, and camaraderie. It’s a time when the streets of Scotland come alive with the sounds of laughter and music.
Traditions and Superstitions
One of my favourite traditions is preparing to meet the new year with a clean slate. As it’s considered bad luck to start the new year with a dirty home, the day is spent doing a frantic ‘big clean’ of the house. It’s also a time to return any borrowed items and pay back any monies owed to friends and family. And, if you’re fortunate enough, you can start the new year with nothing on your credit card!
Hogmanay’s most famous custom is first-footing. The first-footer is the first person to cross the threshold of a home after midnight. They should bring gifts of coal, shortbread, salt, black bun, and whisky, symbolising warmth, food, flavour, good fortune, and cheer for the year ahead. (Most of the time, I’ve only seen some of those items brought, like the bun or shortbread, which were still well-received!) The first-footer should be a dark-haired male, according to tradition, but a lot of folk just send one of the boys of the household out with an item and have them do it. <— Guess what Jez is doing just after the bells!
A lesser-known tradition, and another of my favourites, is sweeping. Yip, you read that right. Basically, you grab a broom and sweep the old year out the backdoor while the open front door welcomes the new one in. Other variations are to open both doors and let the wind blow the old out and bring in the new. I like the sweeping version as it gets rid of any stubborn ‘bad’ from the previous year.
A Time for Reflection and Renewal
Hogmanay isn’t just about the festivities; it’s also a time for reflection and setting intentions for the year ahead. It’s a reminder of the enduring spirit of community, the warmth of friendship, and the joy that can be found in traditions.
So, let’s embrace the spirit of Hogmanay, celebrate the past year’s memories and step into the new year with optimism and enthusiasm. Here’s to a new year filled with adventure, joy, and daring to chase our dreams.
Share Your Hogmanay Stories!
Do you have a unique New Year tradition in your part of the world? Share your stories in the comments below!
Wishing you all the very best for the year to come!
Take care, and have a safe Hogmanay where ever you are.
Susan
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