23 January 2025

By Emma Davidson

If you ever travel to Scotland over the New Year –or Hogmanay, as the scottish call it-, be ready to partake in somewhat unusual traditions. Especially if you are a tall dark-haired male, you may attract more attention than you want. 

The scottish custom called “first-footing”, which is still common nowadays, says the first person to enter the house on January 1st should be a dark-haired male. This is rooted in the viking years of northern Britain, when the fair-haired Vikings never meant good luck. For good luck he should have on him some gifts as for example some shortbread, salt, whisky, a piece of coal and a black bun. These gifts are a symbol of the household’s wealth.

Nowadays the custom is often seen more relaxed; the first footer can be anyone, although they are always to be welcomed with warmth and hospitality.

So pack some Shortbread and Whisky the next time you travel to Scotland for Hogmanay- everyone will love you!

Further reading:

www.scotsman.com/heritage-and-retro/heritage/what-is-first-footing-where-the-scottish-hogmanay-tradition-comes-from-and-common-first-footing-gifts-3960956

www.historic-uk.com/HistoryUK/HistoryofScotland/The-History-of-Hogmanay/