By Jennifer McAdam
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17 Dec, 2018
Hogmanay is the Scots word for the last day of the year and synonymous with the celebration of the New Year, in the Scottish manner It is normally followed by further celebration on the morning of New Year’s Day, and in some cases right through to the 2nd January – Scottish Bank Holiday. The accurate origins of Hogmanay are unclear, but it may be derived from Norse and Gaelic observances. Customs vary throughout Scotland, and usually include gift-giving and visiting the homes of friends and neighbours, with special attention given to the first-foot - the first guest of the new year. This custom starts immediately after midnight, and involves being the first person to cross the threshold of a friend or neighbour and often involves the giving of a symbolic gift, and is intended to bring all kinds of luck to the household. Food and drink are then given to the guests and celebrations may goon throughout the early hours of the morning or well into the next day. However, modern days see people visiting their friends and neighbours well into the middle of January.