Hogmanay: Explained, a little.

The countdown to 2020 is well and truly on! Here in Scotland the celebrations are in full swing where you will find some of the most exciting events taking place. Join the party at Edinburgh’s Hogmanay with 3 days of spectacular events to enjoy and what better way to bring in the bells by watching the incredible fireworks display from Princes Street Gardens. Other major cities including Aberdeen, Perth and Stirling will also be bringing in the New Year in style with a range of exclusive events and live music throughout the evening, not to be missed if you’re in the area. Watch Falkirk light up this Hogmanay with Fire & Light, an incredible outdoor experience for the whole family to enjoy. Make sure to wrap up warm as you look up into the starry night sky to a spectacle of colour and have a mystical exploration of the zodiac signs. Stonehaven know how to put on a show and the Fireball Ceremony will certainly not disappoint. As the clock strikes midnight, watch people fill the streets while they parade down the High Street with big balls of fire to burn off the bad spirits and start afresh for the New Year. Music to everyone’s ears! Enjoy the powerful tones and melodies of the Peatbog Faeries including special performances from local bands and musicians too. Tuck into a delicious supper and take the time to relax and recharge the batteries while the stage is being re-set for the Peatbog Faeries for you to party hard into the New Year! Hogmanay also goes hand in hand with countless customs and important traditions. Welcome in the New Year by singing Auld Lang Syne where everyone crosses their arms and sing to bid farewell to last year! The ‘first foot’ in the house after midnight is also another very common tradition in Scotland. To ensure good luck, a first footer should be a dark-haired man. Traditional gifts include a lump of coal to place on the host’s fire, along with shortbread, a black bun and whisky to toast the New Year in. However you decide to celebrate this Hogmanay, it will sure be a night to remember! To find out more information visit: See more from VisitScotland: Subscribe on YouTube: Visit our website: Like our Facebook page: Follow us on Instagram: Say hello on Twitter: