Out with the old, in with the new... 2020 is nearly over, and I think it's safe to say that most of us are very eager to say goodbye to this year, and welcome 2021 with the hope that it will be a better year for all.
Let's take a look at how the New Year is traditionally celebrated, starting in the UK and then venturing further afield...
Across the UK on the 31st December, as the clock strikes midnight, people hold hands and sing 'Auld Lang Syne' to welcome the new year in. But where exactly did this song originate? And how much of it can you remember?!
The song was written by famous Scottish poet Robert Burns in 1788, who based it on an old folk song. In the Scots language, the phrase 'auld lang syne' roughly translates as 'for old times' sake'. It is a song about reunion and reconciliation; a reflection of times past, and a promise to move forward together. It can evoke feelings of belonging and friendship. Here is one version of the first verse and chorus:
Should old acquaintance be forgot,
and never brought to mind?
Should old acquaintance be forgot,
and old lang syne?
Chorus:
For auld lang syne, my dear,
for auld lang syne,
we’ll take a cup of kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
Although its origins are in Scotland, 'Auld Lang Syne' is now sung all over the world on new Year's Eve.
In Scotland, 'Hogmanay' is the Scots word for the last day of the year. The celebrations begin on New Year's Eve and last until the 2nd January (which is also a public holiday in Scotland). Hogmanay’s origins are thought to be viking - the Norse invaders began by celebrating the winter solstice on the 21st December, culminating with wild parties at the end of the month. Modern-day celebrations include torch-lit parades, fire festivals, huge fireworks displays, and music performances.
Another popular tradition in Scotland is that of 'first-footing'. The first guest to enter a house in the new year must bring a gift (these can range from salt or coal, to shortbread and whiskey!). This is intended to bring luck to the householder. Traditionally, tall, dark-haired men are preferred as the first guests!
Another increasingly popular New Year's Day tradition in many parts of the world is the Polar Plunge, or Polar Bear Plunge. People visit their nearest beach, some in fancy dress, and take a dip in the sea! A lot of the events are for charity, with those brave enough to take the icy swim being sponsored by those who aren't!
Finally, many people across the world make New Year's resolutions, or promises to themselves to achieve certain goals in the coming year. This seems to be one of the oldest traditions we follow - the ancient Babylonians are thought to have been the first people to make resolutions around 4,000 years ago. Their promises included paying debts and returning any items they had borrowed!
Wherever you are and whatever traditions you are following, here at PlanBee we wish you all a Happy New Year!
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