Well, that’s a wrap…
As the end of 2024 approaches, we’ll soon be celebrating Hogmanay here in the Highlands. As the saying goes, out with the old and in with the new. Here in the Highlands, celebrating Hogmanay is about ending the old year right.
Preparing for the New Year
As the end of the year approaches, Scots and those inspired by Scottish heritage gather to celebrate Hogmanay. The customs of Hogmanay have deep roots, some dating back to Viking times. Here’s a closer look at some of the most cherished Scottish Hogmanay traditions that you can enjoy as you ring in the New Year.
The Fire Rituals
Fire has long been central to Hogmanay celebrations, echoing ancient pagan rituals that honoured the return of the sun and warded off dark spirits. This tradition has evolved into modern displays, including torchlight processions, bonfires and fireworks. In keeping with the ancient tradition of using fire to drive away darkness, many Scottish families ensure that their fireplaces are lit as the New Year begins. This act symbolises the return of the sun and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere for gathering with loved ones.
First Footing
The first person to enter a Scottish home after midnight is called the ‘first foot’. It’s thought that they bring good luck for the year ahead. This person should not have been in the house at midnight and they often bring small gifts like a coin, bread, salt, a lump of coal and whisky. Each of these items symbolises something special, like prosperity or warmth. It’s also considered lucky if the first foot is a dark-haired man.
Auld Lang Syne
No Hogmanay celebration is complete without the iconic song “Auld Lang Syne,” written by Scotland’s national bard, Robert Burns. This poem is set to a traditional Scottish folk melody and become a global New Year’s Eve staple. As the clock strikes midnight, people around the world join hands and sing. Reflecting on the past year and welcoming the new one.
Tastes of Scotland
Hogmanay isn’t just about partying, it’s also a chance to enjoy some delicious food and drink. Traditional Scottish treats are a big part of the celebration. You’ll find fruitcake, shortbread and black bun on the table. Black bun is a rich, fruity cake made with raisins, currants, brandy and spices. No Hogmanay celebration is complete without haggis, neeps (turnips) tatties (potatoes) and of course a toast with Scotch whisky to ring in the New Year.
Hogmanay in the Highlands is also seen as a great time for looking back over the last year and deciding what you are thankful for.
We’ll go first . . .
This is a tradition that we are fully embracing here at Eagle Brae. We would love to know what you are thankful for this Hogmanay so, we’ll kickstart the conversation with what we have loved about the last year here in the Highlands. . .
Reasons to be thankful
Number 1
We are very lucky to live and work, in such a beautiful place. And incredibly proud that it’s a place our wonderful guests want to visit. So, the first thing we are thankful for is another year of meeting some lovely people and welcoming them to this stunning destination.
And, of course, we are truly thankful that those wonderful guests are so happy with their visit that, to date, we have over 640 5-star reviews from them.
Number 2
We are thankful for being able to offer a stunning destination that helps us empower eco-travel with our carbon-neutral holidays. Our handmade, sustainable cabins are nestled at the top of a magnificent hill looking out over a gorgeous glen.
We are especially thankful for being able to help our eco-minded guests take care of the beauty that surrounds us by planting a tree when they visit or by joining us on a foraging trip in the untamed wilderness that offers the best of Mother Nature’s table.
Number 3
Finally, we are thankful to be able to offer our guests some of the best opportunities to enjoy a Highland adventure in one of the most spectacular destinations. From walking, pony-trekking and dog-sledding to clay-pigeon shooting, camera stalking and target shooting. We can arrange a whole host of activities for those of our guests who want to experience the best outdoor adventures the Highlands has to offer.
Your turn
So, now it’s your turn. What is the one (or three!) things that have happened this year that you are truly thankful for? We’d love to hear about it so, find us on Facebook or Instagram and tell us.
Even better, book a last-minute stay with us here in our little piece of Highland heaven. Wishing you a Hogmanay full of warmth, good fortune and Scottish spirit. Happy New Year!
