Hogmanay in Scotland (31/12)

Hogmanay — is a New Year in Scottish national style. This large-scale event includes torchlight processions (and all kinds of fire entertainment in general), as well as various parties, performances and attractions. The most significant Hogmanay events take place on the streets of Edinburgh and Glasgow and usually last two days.

The etymology of Hogmanay is not entirely clear. It may be derived from the Gaelic «oge maidne», meaning «new morning». Other historians believe that the name of the holiday is — of Anglo-Saxon origin and was originally written as «Haleg Moneth» — «holy month».

Whatever the truth, it is obvious that Hogmanay — is a very ancient holiday, which was celebrated by pagans who prudently worshiped fire and sun in the middle of winter. It is also associated with the festival of the solstice, which existed among the Vikings.

The main symbol of Hogmanay is — fire. It is believed that by lighting it on the evening of December 31, you thereby transfer wisdom from the old year to the new. It is also an effective way to end all the black thoughts and tribulations of the past and enter the new year with fresh hope. It is logical that torchlight processions, turning «fire balls», bonfires, fireworks and illumination are of such great importance on New Year’s Eve.

Other elements of the national flavor — are this folk dance kaili (ceilidh) and the so-called «sign of the first leg» (first-footing), the essence of which is that the prosperity of the family in the coming year depends on the suit of the first guest. It is highly desirable that it be a cute brunette without noticeable physical flaws, but with a piece of coal. Why dark-haired? Most likely, the wary attitude towards blondes is associated with the historical memory of the Viking invasions. As you know, you didn’t have to expect anything good from them…

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