INTERNATIONAL DAY

First Foot Day (Hogmanay)

First Foot Day is a time to celebrate new beginnings and share good fortune.

JAN1

Friday, January 1Every year on January 1

days to go

Roots: Scotland
Vibe: A festive atmosphere filled with hope and communal spirit.
Also on Jan 1: World Day of Peace · Euro Day · International Public Domain Day
Hashtag: #FirstFootDayHogmanay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Welcome the year

Step outside at midnight and re-enter with good cheer.

WITH FRIENDS

First-foot visit

Be the first guest through a friend's door with a small gift.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

New year wishes

Share hopes for the year with coworkers on day one.

Plan ahead

First Foot Day (Hogmanay) is observed on January 1 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Thu, Jan 1this year

2027Fri, Jan 1

2028Sat, Jan 1

2029Mon, Jan 1

2030Tue, Jan 1

2031Wed, Jan 1

2032Thu, Jan 1

2033Sat, Jan 1

2034Sun, Jan 1

2035Mon, Jan 1

2036Tue, Jan 1

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Fast facts

Guinness once named Edinburgh's Hogmanay the world's largest New Year's party.

First-footing begins immediately after midnight.

The story

First Foot Day, or Hogmanay, has its roots in ancient Scottish traditions that emphasize the importance of the first visitor to one’s home in the New Year. This practice is believed to bring good luck and prosperity. As families gather to celebrate, they often prepare specific foods and drinks to welcome this guest, creating an environment of warmth and goodwill.

Read the full story

The tradition typically involves the first footer bringing symbolic gifts, such as coal for warmth, bread for sustenance, and whisky for good cheer. Each item holds significance, representing blessings for the household. In Scotland, this practice is deeply ingrained, and it fosters a sense of community as neighbors and friends come together.

In modern America, the spirit of Hogmanay is increasingly recognized, many celebrate with Scottish-inspired parties and gatherings. Some even adopt the first footer custom, inviting loved ones to step through their doors at midnight. Scottish societies across the U.S. host events that honor this tradition, blending cultural heritage with contemporary festivities.

As the clock strikes midnight, the air fills with cheers, songs, and toasts, uniting people in joyful anticipation of the year ahead. First Foot Day transcends borders, inviting everyone to partake in its warmth and significance, making it a cherished observance far beyond Scotland.

Did you know?

First Footing

The first footer is traditionally a dark-haired man, symbolizing strength and good fortune.

Viking Influence

Hogmanay's roots may reach back to Norse winter solstice celebrations.

Hogmanay Customs

Common customs include singing 'Auld Lang Syne' and lighting bonfires.

Scottish New Year

Hogmanay has been celebrated in Scotland since at least the 16th century.

First Foot Gifts

Gifts like whisky and shortbread are common for the first footer to bring.

Midnight Bells

In Scotland, church bells ring at midnight, marking the New Year.

Celtic Roots

Many Hogmanay traditions are influenced by ancient Celtic customs.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

·ScotlandThe birthplace of Hogmanay, where the celebration is rich in customs and traditions.
USUnited StatesMany American cities celebrate with Scottish-themed events and gatherings.
CACanadaCanada's Scottish communities partake in Hogmanay festivities each year.
AUAustraliaHogmanay is celebrated by Scottish expatriates, bringing a taste of home to the New Year.
NZNew ZealandKiwis with Scottish heritage honor Hogmanay with traditional celebrations.
GBUnited KingdomBeyond Scotland, other UK regions embrace Hogmanay, blending traditions with local customs.