Scotland is full of unique Christmas and Hogmanay traditions that make the festive season here truly special. From ancient customs to modern celebrations, the Scottish way of celebrating Christmas and New Year is something everyone should experience at least once. Here’s a look at some of the most interesting Christmas and Hogmanay traditions you’ll find in Scotland.
Christmas celebrations in Scotland
Christmas in Scotland is a joyful time filled with festive traditions, family gatherings and delicious food. Scots celebrate Christmas with as much enthusiasm as anywhere else. Homes are decorated with lights and Christmas trees. Traditional Scottish treats like shortbread and mince pies are popular, while Christmas markets and events bring a festive atmosphere to towns and cities across the country.
Christmas was banned for 400 years!
Did you know Christmas was once banned in Scotland? In the 1600s, the Scottish Parliament stopped all Christmas celebrations. They believed the holiday was too closely linked to Catholic traditions and a bit too rowdy! For nearly 400 years, Christmas wasn’t officially celebrated in Scotland and it wasn’t until 1958 that it became a public holiday again. Thankfully, things have changed and now Christmas is widely celebrated, just like in many other parts of the world.
Winter Solstice
Long before Christmas, the ancient Scots celebrated the winter solstice, marking the return of longer days. They would bring greenery like holly and ivy into their homes to symbolise life during the dark winter. Mistletoe was also important as it represented fertility. Today this tradition carries on with mistletoe hung in doorways, for people to share a kiss under it.
The Yule log
The Yule log is another tradition that dates back to Scotland’s winter solstice celebrations. Burning the Yule log in the fireplace symbolised bringing warmth and light back into the home during the darkest time of the year. Nowadays, the tradition has evolved and many Scots place candles in their windows during Christmas, continuing the idea of bringing light into their homes.
Burning Rowan
A unique Scottish Christmas tradition is burning a twig from the rowan tree. The rowan tree is thought to protect against evil spirits and burning a twig during Christmas helps clear away bad feelings and encourages harmony between family and friends.
Hogmanay is Scotland’s New Year celebration
As Christmas ends, the focus shifts to Hogmanay, Scotland’s famous New Year’s Eve celebration. Christmas and Hogmanay traditions are in Scotland’s history and Hogmanay is an exciting time filled with traditions.
First Footing
One of the most popular Hogmanay traditions is the First Footing. After midnight, the first person to enter your house is thought to bring good luck for the New Year. They often bring a gift like shortbread or whisky, symbolising good cheer for the year ahead.
Auld Lang Syne
Hogmanay wouldn’t be complete without a rendition of Auld Lang Syne. This famous song, written by Scotland’s poet Robert Burns, is sung at the stroke of midnight. Everyone joins hands to sing it, saying goodbye to the old year and welcoming the new one. It’s a tradition that’s loved not just in Scotland but all over the world.
Fire Rituals
Fire plays a big part in Hogmanay traditions. Torchlight processions, bonfires and fireworks are all used to welcome the New Year and drive away darkness. Many Scottish families also light their fireplaces on New Year’s Eve, creating a warm and cosy atmosphere as they gather to celebrate with loved ones.
Celebrate Christmas and Hogmanay at Loch Lomond Waterfront
If you’d like to experience these wonderful Christmas and Hogmanay traditions for yourself, why not book a stay at Loch Lomond Waterfront? Whether you’re looking for a cosy Christmas getaway or a fun-filled Hogmanay celebration, we’ve got everything you need for a magical festive season.
Santa knows where to find us, so you can rest assured that the kids will get their Christmas visit! Plus, we’ll be putting on a fireworks display at midnight on the 31st of December to welcome the New Year in true Scottish style. A Hogmanay break at Loch Lomond Waterfront is the perfect way to relax, recharge and make new memories.
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