In Scotland, how is the New Year celebration commonly referred to?

Hogmanay is the Scots word for the last day of the year and the celebrations that go with it. The celebration of Hogmanay in Scotland has roots in pagan winter festivals, incorporating elements from Gaelic and Norse traditions. While the rest of the UK celebrates New Year's Eve, Scotland has a unique and distinct cultural celebration. It's more than just a party; it's a series of customs and traditions, like first-footing, where the first person to cross the threshold after midnight brings good luck, often with symbolic gifts like coal, shortbread, or whisky. The festivities can last for several days, making it a significant cultural event in Scotland. So, while "New Year's Eve" or "New Year" are generally understood, "Hogmanay" is the specific and culturally relevant term used in Scotland to describe this particular celebration.
Think of Hogmanay as Scotland's own festive word for welcoming the New Year with joy and tradition.