Hogmanay – Page 2 – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

Where to bring in the New Year

SKIDDLE HAS FOUND THE BEST NEW YEAR’S EVE EVENTS IN EDINBURGH – SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO!

The festive season can be stressful enough as it is, with Black Friday shopping, Christmas dinner planning and travelling the country to see your loved ones. And yet, to add to the stress, 38% of us leave looking for that perfect NYE party until the last minute – scrambling for tickets between 26th – 31st December.

Skiddle, the events discovery platform, has taken one thing off your to-do list for 2022 – and found the best NYE events in Edinburgh. Get ready to send this list to the group chat and start booking, you don’t want to miss out on ringing in the New Year in style!

Hogmanay Party ft. Special guest DJ Irvine Welsh
Noir (Little White Pig)

Celebrate 2022 and welcome in the new year in style, in one of new town’s best kept secret venues. Soundtrack to your new year, provided by Special guest DJ Irvine Welsh, and local legends Mikey R, Bush, Mungo & David Lee.

Exclusive 4-course Pre-party dinner also available.

Tickets available here from £20.00.

Hogmanay Ceilidh Dance + Mad Ferret Hogmanay Hoolie
Stramash

Head to Stramash this NYE for a Hogmanay Hoolie like no other. You will be greeted with a glass of Prosecco on arrival and then taught how to Ceilidh Dance like a true Scot. ‘The Jig Show’ – Rockin ceilidh band with a modern twist, will talk you through all the dance moves and even take a short break in the middle for light refreshments.

Includes access to Mad Ferret Hogmanay Hoolie 11pm until 5am.

The Mad Ferret Band are known on the Scottish music scene for their hard hitting blend of traditional and contemporary folk music. Their lively, energetic performances are packed with “blisteringly fast mandolin solos”, tight vocal harmonies, driving Cajon beats and earth-moving guitar sounds.

Tickets available here from £35.00 + BF.

Edinburgh Hogmanay Snow Ball Ceilidh
Assembly Rooms

The Scottish capital’s biggest and best-loved indoor Hogmanay event is back for a 9th year on December 31st 2022. A cherished Edinburgh night, it’s the big one for glamour and kilts… the Real McCoy! If you’re looking for a truly top Scottish NYE event, you’ve just found it.

Treat yourself to a breathtaking night to end the old year and bring in the new – in the capital’s finest civic venue. There is, quite literally, nowhere else in town to compare. Twin ballrooms await you, sparkling in winter décor.

There’s a top, professional live ceilidh band in each magnificent ballroom: one is traditional, one contemporary. The superb Front Ballroom becomes a glitzy disco later in the night, while the dazzling Music Room Ballroom stays fully trad. Meanwhile, a spectacular drawing room becomes a silent disco – and all guests are welcome in anytime as it’s a new, fun addition.

Pop out to see the midnight fireworks, then rejoin things!

Tickets available here from £54.99 + BF.

Monsters Ball NYE 2022
Frankensteins Edinburgh

Join the monster for his annual Monster Ball this Hogmanay and join the biggest party in the city. Featuring live performers, drag queens, DJs on rotation, themed drinks and decor and much more this is an event not to be missed.

Dress to impress! Fancy dress is encouraged. (But not required).

The monster looks forward to welcoming you…

Tickets available here from £7.00 + BF.

Casino Royale – NYE 2022
LE MONDE

Le Monde is hosting an event you will not want to miss, Casino Royale – featuring casino, entertainment, themed drinks and more.

The bond themed event will include drinks reception, casino tables, entertainment, live DJs and much more.

Dress to impress, and join for the most glamourous Hogmanay party in the City.

Tickets available here from £7.50 + BF.

To find the biggest range of events in Edinburgh, including music, comedy, food + drink, festivals, attractions, theatre and more, head to the Skiddle website.

SKIDDLE HAS FOUND THE BEST NEW YEAR’S EVE EVENTS IN EDINBURGH – SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO!

The festive season can be stressful enough as it is, with Black Friday shopping, Christmas dinner planning and travelling the country to see your loved ones. And yet, to add to the stress, 38% of us leave looking for that perfect NYE party until the last minute – scrambling for tickets between 26th – 31st December.

Skiddle, the events discovery platform, has taken one thing off your to-do list for 2022 – and found the best NYE events in Edinburgh. Get ready to send this list to the group chat and start booking, you don’t want to miss out on ringing in the New Year in style!

Hogmanay Party ft. Special guest DJ Irvine Welsh

Noir (Little White Pig)

Celebrate 2022 and welcome in the new year in style, in one of new town’s best kept secret venues. Soundtrack to your new year, provided by Special guest DJ Irvine Welsh, and local legends Mikey R, Bush, Mungo & David Lee.

Exclusive 4-course Pre-party dinner also available.

Tickets available here from £20.00.

Hogmanay Ceilidh Dance + Mad Ferret Hogmanay Hoolie

Stramash

Head to Stramash this NYE for a Hogmanay Hoolie like no other. You will be greeted with a glass of Prosecco on arrival and then taught how to Ceilidh Dance like a true Scot. ‘The Jig Show’ – Rockin ceilidh band with a modern twist, will talk you through all the dance moves and even take a short break in the middle for light refreshments.

Includes access to Mad Ferret Hogmanay Hoolie 11pm until 5am.

The Mad Ferret Band are known on the Scottish music scene for their hard hitting blend of traditional and contemporary folk music. Their lively, energetic performances are packed with “blisteringly fast mandolin solos”, tight vocal harmonies, driving Cajon beats and earth-moving guitar sounds.

Tickets available here from £35.00 + BF.

Edinburgh Hogmanay Snow Ball Ceilidh

Assembly Rooms

The Scottish capital’s biggest and best-loved indoor Hogmanay event is back for a 9th year on December 31st 2022. A cherished Edinburgh night, it’s the big one for glamour and kilts… the Real McCoy! If you’re looking for a truly top Scottish NYE event, you’ve just found it.

Treat yourself to a breathtaking night to end the old year and bring in the new – in the capital’s finest civic venue. There is, quite literally, nowhere else in town to compare. Twin ballrooms await you, sparkling in winter décor.

There’s a top, professional live ceilidh band in each magnificent ballroom: one is traditional, one contemporary. The superb Front Ballroom becomes a glitzy disco later in the night, while the dazzling Music Room Ballroom stays fully trad. Meanwhile, a spectacular drawing room becomes a silent disco – and all guests are welcome in anytime as it’s a new, fun addition.

Pop out to see the midnight fireworks, then rejoin things!

Tickets available here from £54.99 + BF.

Monsters Ball NYE 2022

Frankensteins Edinburgh

Join the monster for his annual Monster Ball this Hogmanay and join the biggest party in the city. Featuring live performers, drag queens, DJs on rotation, themed drinks and decor and much more this is an event not to be missed.

Dress to impress! Fancy dress is encouraged. (But not required).

The monster looks forward to welcoming you…

Tickets available here from £7.00 + BF.

Casino Royale – NYE 2022

LE MONDE

Le Monde is hosting an event you will not want to miss, Casino Royale – featuring casino, entertainment, themed drinks and more.

The bond themed event will include drinks reception, casino tables, entertainment, live DJs and much more.

Dress to impress, and join for the most glamourous Hogmanay party in the City.

Tickets available here from £7.50 + BF.

To find the biggest range of events in Edinburgh, including music, comedy, food + drink, festivals, attractions, theatre and more, head to the Skiddle website.

Red Hot Hogmanay: Ring in the New Year at the hottest party in town with Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is turning up the heat this New Year’s Eve with its Red Hot Hogmanay celebration, which is set to be the hottest party in town.

Taking place in Eve, the hotel’s all-day dining venue, party goers will be able to celebrate in style with a drop red gorgeous scarlet dress code and entertainment from live bands and world-renowned DJs, including Funkwild, Buckwild, Eclair Fifi and Rebecca Vasmant, playing until the small hours of 2023.

Celebrations kick off at 9pm where guests will be greeted with a welcome fit for a VVVIP including a glass of fizz on arrival. Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable dinner experience or a place to dance the night away, there is a selection of packages available at Eve to suit all guests, from ‘Dinner Only’ to the ‘Pimp My Party’ package which provides the ultimate VIP experience with no queues, your own table for the night and table service, ensuring you always have your glass topped up.

Situated at ground floor level, with an entrance from Cowgate, Eve opened its doors in October and boasts a luxurious interior with unique floor-to-ceiling murals and a vibrant, lively atmosphere, making it the place to be seen in Edinburgh’s The Old Town.

There’s something for everyone at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh and those who are seeking a more relaxed and refined evening can enjoy a specially curated 5-star menu with champagne to accompany at Commons Club – Virgin Hotel’s iconic flagship restaurant.

From 7pm onwards, Commons Club will be welcoming guests to enjoy a sophisticated evening filled with show-stopping entertainment from performers, Laura Wilkie, and Fergus McCreadie, on keys and fiddle. Guests will also have access to the hotel’s rooftop for an exclusive experience, viewing Edinburgh’s iconic Hogmanay firework display from a never-before-seen viewpoint. With one of the best views of Edinburgh Castle and a special rooftop fiddle performance, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Scott McArdle, General Manager at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, said: “Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is ready to show the Capital how to celebrate the new year in style with our first Red Hot Hogmanay.

“With lots of exciting plans in store – there’s something for everyone at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh from the vibrant, lively atmosphere of Eve which is perfect for those looking to dance the night away to the more relaxed and refined experience of our flagship restaurant – Commons Club.

“Edinburgh is synonymous with New Year’s Eve, and we are really excited to join in the celebrations at the home of Hogmanay, offering locals and our jet-setting guests an evening they’ll never forget.”

Whatever your preference for the evening, make this New Year’s Eve RED HOT and join Virgin Hotels Edinburgh for a night to remember.

For more information about the celebrations taking place at Eve and to book tickets, visit: https://virginhotels.com/edinburgh/offers/red-hot-hogmanay-at-eve/

To make a reservation at Commons Club, contact abi-weigold@virginhotels.com

Morrisons unveils food & drink offers for Hogmanay

Morrisons has unveiled a range of products and offers across food favourites, liqueurs, beers and soft drinks to bring in the new year in style.

Highlights include:

Up to 44% off 50cl-70cl liqueurs including Warnink’s Advocaat, Tia Maria Liqueur, Malibu Coconut Liqueur, Glayva Whisky Liqueur and Disaronno Amaretto (£9.99)
2 for £2.50 on Simon Howie’s range, including Black Pudding, Sliced Haggis, Beef Links, Pork Sausages and Lorne Sausage
The Famous Grouse Ruby Cask for £14 (Morrisons supermarket exclusive)

The range and offers are available until 1^st January 2023, and more information can be found online at https://groceries.morrisons.com/browse/hogmanay-187632.

Police: Hogmanay Safety Message

We will have dedicated teams of officers deployed on foot across the city centre to prevent disorder and provide reassurance to the public to make sure everyone can enjoy Hogmanay safely.

Superintendent Mark Rennie from St Leonard’s Police Station said: “Although planned events in Scotland’s capital have been cancelled this year as a result of the Coronavirus, we will have a significant police resource available to ensure everyone keeps safe during the night.

“Our officers will be joined by volunteers from Street Assist Edinburgh and other outreach services who will be on hand to offer help and support.

“We will also be supported by The City of Edinburgh Council who will have staff out including taxi marshals, environmental wardens, night time teams and CCTV operators to prevent incidents from escalating and to ensure that everyone gets home safely.

“If you are intending on visiting the city centre please ensure you plan your night, as licensed premises are operating at a significantly reduced capacity, with some operating a booking system.

“It is also important that you have a plan for getting home before you go out, keep your mobile phone charged, look after your valuables and keep an eye on how much alcohol you drink as overindulgence can impact on your behaviour.”

Firework fear: experts urge pet owners to start preparing their furry friends for New Year’s Eve

Vet charity warn fearful pets face fireworks misery

As we look forward to New Year’s Eve celebrations, many pet owners may find themselves more stressed than excited by the prospect.

Vet charity PDSA is urging owners to take preventive action – especially those who took on a pet during the pandemic – in a bid to reduce the extreme distress and suffering that fireworks can cause for many of our four-legged friends.

Our pets’ enhanced senses mean they can find the loud noises and bright flashes from fireworks overwhelming, which can lead to severe anxiety and trauma.

PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing said: “The firework season may be an especially difficult time for pups who were raised during lockdown – our 2021 PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report* shows that 15 per cent of UK dogs (139,000) obtained during the pandemic are showing signs of fear.

“One well recognised fear in dogs is noise phobias, and our previous research reports that 40% of dogs are afraid of fireworks. Of those dogs owned before the pandemic, our research revealed 3% of dogs (260,000) were reported as showing signs of fear, so it’s unknown what the impact will be come New Year.

“Thankfully, there are simple steps that can be followed to reduce distress in our pets – the sooner you can start preparing the better. While some pets who are very affected by fireworks can take months of training to make them more comfortable with the bangs and flashes, there are still plenty of things you can do now to help. PDSA has produced a free guide to help owners lessen the impact of this stressful period.”

PDSA’s top tips on tackling fireworks phobias include:

1. Start early

The earlier you can start your pre-fireworks prep, the better. Play firework noises quietly throughout the house in the days leading up to New Year’s Eve, and pair these with their favourite treat! If they show any signs of stress, stop the noises, and try again at a lower volume when they are not reacting. Continue to do this all year round, so your pet builds up positive associations with these sounds.

2. Secure your garden

Secure your home and garden in advance, as fearful furry friends may panic and scarper. Ensure any ‘escape routes’ – such as holes in fences – are inaccessible. Keep doors, windows and cat flaps closed to keep everyone safe, and pull the curtains to help muffle the sounds as well as block the flashes. Don’t forget to provide a litter tray for your cat if they usually toilet outside.

3. Set up a hideaway

Create a ‘den’ in a quiet room or cupboard, which your pet can use as a safe space to hide in. It’s important that your pet already views this space as a safe place that they can escape to. Make it extra cosy with blankets and their favourite toys and treats, and add pillows or cushions to help absorb the loud noises – you can also do the same to hutches for smaller four-legged friends, who may also appreciate some extra bedding to hide away in.

4. Create calm vibes

Using pheromone products can help anxious pets, as the scents they release provide a calming effect to relax a stressed pooch or puss. You can even prepare a calming playlist, as music with a repetitive beat might help to disguise the loud bangs from fireworks and may keep your furry friend relaxed.

5. Speak to your vet

If you’re concerned your pet has a severe phobia of fireworks, it’s best to speak to an expert. Your vet can advise you on measures to improve the phobia, such as professional behaviour therapy or prescribe medications to help.

For more information on how to prepare your pet for New Year’s Eve and to download PDSA’s free Firework Guide, please visit www.pdsa.org.uk/fireworks2021.

Jackie Bird makes a Hogmanay comeback, but it’s not for Auld Lang Syne …

You might know her best from lighting up your TV screen as you count down to the bells, but this year, Scotland’s Queen of Hogmanay is bringing you a celebration of top quality Scottish food.

That’s right – the inimitable Jackie Bird is making a return to Hogmanay, alongside Edinburgh chef Scott Smith, to join the team behind Make It Scotch to help you enjoy a Hogmanay with Cred.

Scott, chef owner of Fhior restaurant in Edinburgh, has put aside the traditional beef steak pie or stovies and instead created an inspiring dish of slow cooked Scotch Beef PGI cheeks with skirlie, champagne glazed carrots and Bovril potatoes.

In a video filmed in the Make It Scotch Cred Test Kitchen, Scott takes viewers through his recipe while he and Jackie reminisce about some of their own Hogmanay traditions and what inspired the recipe he created.

But there was one test it had to pass… Jackie’s approval! Having been the host of Scotland’s New Year’s Eve entertainment for so many years, it was only right that she should be the first to try this dish from Scott.

https://youtu.be/BFEqRzzkdtA

Jackie said: “I’m used to spending Hogmanay in front of the cameras, but it was a delight to come back and do it for something different this year by joining Scott in the Cred Test Kitchen to try out his new Hogmanay dish.

“I wouldn’t claim myself to be a Michelin star critic but I am certain that giving this dish a go will help make this year’s New Year celebration one to remember – just the tonic we need after the tough time we’ve all had!”

You can find out her verdict by watching the video on Make It Scotch’s YouTube, Facebook and Instagram channel, where there is a series of festive hacks, tips and red meat recipe inspiration created for the brand’s ‘Make It a Christmas with Cred’ campaign.

Scott said: “I want my recipe to encourage people to try something different from the norm for their new year celebrations while still keeping that nostalgic feeling that Hogmanay – plus the champagne in the carrots could help use up some excess booze from the festive season!

“It would also work well with alternative beef cuts such as featherblade and parts like the skirlie can be tweaked to suit ingredients people prefer. It would suit any of the typical meals enjoyed over Hogmanay too, whether it’s the big night, New Year’s Day or a first footing dish you’re taking to visit a friend or family member.”

Lesley Cameron, Director of Marketing and Communications at Quality Meat Scotland, the organisation that promotes Scotch Beef PGI, Scotch Lamb PGI and Specially Selected Pork, added: “This festive season, we want people to make it extra special by choosing an alternative type of meat, such as Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb or Specially Selected Pork from quality-assured farms that adopt best practice in animal welfare and production methods.

“Scott’s recipe is a perfect chance to celebrate the world class Scotch Beef we have in Scotland as you celebrate the start of 2022 but do it in a way that puts a twist on your usual favourites. And we are absolutely delighted to have Jackie Bird’s seal of approval too!”

Watch the full video here – and feel free to share! https://youtu.be/BFEqRzzkdtA

For more Scotch Beef PGI, Scotch Lamb PGI and Specially Selected Pork recipe videos and inspiration visit www.makeitscotch.com or follow Make It Scotch on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok.

——

Slow cooked Scotch Beef PGI cheeks with skirlie, glazed carrots and Bovril potatoes

Serves 4-6

Scotch Beef PGI cheeks

Ingredients

4 Scotch Beef cheeks, approx. 400g per cheek

24g sea salt

2 ltr beef stock

2 carrots, roughly chopped

2 stalks of celery, roughly chopped

2 garlic cloves, crushed

2 bay leaves

3 sprigs of thyme

250ml red wine

150g butter, diced

Oil, for cooking

Method

The day before cooking:

Prepare a brine by heating 3 litres of water and the 24g of sea salt until the salt has dissolved. Once this has fully cooled, trim the cheeks and add them to the brine. Let them sit in the brine for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step is optional but adds even more flavour to the delicious cheeks!

On the day of cooking:

Before starting to cook, remove the cheeks an hour before starting to allow them to come to room temp.

Pre heat the oven to 180C

Heat a heavy-based casserole dish on the hob at a medium high heat and add a couple table spoons of oil.
Once the oil is very hot, add the cheeks and colour heavily on all sides. This is essential to developing good flavour.
Once coloured, remove the cheeks from the pan and set aside. Turn the heat down a little. Now add the butter, followed by the carrot, celery and garlic, and allow this to cook for about 5 minutes until lightly coloured.
Add the red wine, and once reduced by half, add the stock and bring to a boil and then back down to a gentle simmer.
Add the bay, thyme and add the cheeks back in.
Place a tightly fitting lid on and put the casserole dish in the oven for 2 and a half hours.
Remove the dish from the oven and check that the meat is tender. If ready, then carefully remove the cheeks from the pan and strain the stock through a sieve.
Add the stock back to the pan and reduce this on a high heat until it becomes thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Take 50ml of this sauce out and keep aside for the skirlie.
Add the cheeks back in to the pan and keep warm.

Glazed carrots

Ingredients

6 carrots, medium sized

3 star anise

1 tsp black peppercorns

1 tbsp caster sugar

175g butter, diced

150ml champagne (or your bubbly of choice such as prosecco or cava)

1 ltr beef stock

Oil, for cooking

Salt, for seasoning

Method

Peel the carrots and cut into pieces about 7cm long.
Heat a heavy based saucepan with a little oil on a medium high heat and add the carrots with a little salt for seasoning.
Colour the carrots until golden and then add the champagne. Reduce this by a third and then add all the remaining ingredients. Top up with water to ensure the carrots are submerged by about an inch.
Turn up the heat to a gentle boil and continue to cook for about 15 minutes until almost all the liquid has gone. Shaking the pan every now and then to move the carrots around.
Once the carrots are tender, turn the heat up high to finish reducing the liquid and creating a shiny glaze on the carrots.
Remove from the heat and keep warm.

Bovril potatoes

Ingredients

2kg Maris piper potatoes

2 onions

500ml vegetable stock

3 tbsp Bovril (optional)

100g butter

Salt, for seasoning

Method

Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. Ideally do this on a mandoline, the thinner the better.
Peel and very thinly slice the onions.
In an ovenproof dish, arrange a layer with a third of the potatoes, followed by a third of the onions. Add a little salt for seasoning and a drizzle a teaspoon of Bovril across the layer.
Repeat this process two more times to fill the dish and then pour over the stock.
Distribute the diced butter on top and place the dish in the oven (already pre heated to 180C) for 1 hour.
Turn the oven up to 210C and finish in the oven for 15 minutes to crisp up the top before serving.

Skirlie

Ingredients

150g pinhead oats

2 shallots, finely diced

50g beef dripping

1 tbsp parsley, chopped

50ml sauce from the cheeks

Method

Melt the dripping in a frying pan and add in the shallots with a little salt.
Cook the shallots for 5 minutes until they are lightly caramelised.
Add the oats and stir well to ensure the fat is being absorbed evenly and cook them on a low heat for about 8 minutes until toasted, lightly cooked, but still retaining bite.
Now add the sauce from the beef cheeks and cook for a further 3 minutes.
Remove from the heat and add the chopped parsley.
Adjust the seasoning if needed and keep warm.

To serve

Bring the casserole pan with the cheeks up to a gentle boil and carefully baste the Scotch Beef Cheeks with the sauce and turn them over a few times to glaze the cheeks.
Spoon the skirlie between your serving plates and place a cheek on top, followed by lots of the sauce form the pan.
Add the carrots to the plate.
Put the potato dish on the table as a side for everyone to help themselves.
Pour yourself a whisky!

TIPS:

The potatoes can be prepared and cooked in the oven at the same time as the cheeks. These can then be put back into the oven at 210C before serving to reheat and crisp up the top.
If you are unable to get beef cheeks, then the recipe can be replaced with beef featherblade. Increase the cooking time by 1 hour for this.
The beef can be cooked the day before to save time. If you do this, then don’t reduce your final sauce when removing from the oven. Chill the whole casserole down and store the beef in the cooking liquid to finish on the day.

Fare Well: the movie!

A very different Hogmanay: Edinburgh 2020

Think twice and follow the rules

Public urged: stay in and stay safe

A public health consultant from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has warned New Year revellers to stay in and stay safe this weekend, amid great concern over recent very large increases in cases linked to the new variant of coronavirus.

Normally at this time of year, thousands of party-goers would be heading out on to the town and to house parties to celebrate New Year and the final weekend of the festive season, but in an attempt to prevent an explosion of cases, people are being asked not to even think about this.

Dr Daniel Carter, Consultant in Public Health Medicine at NHSGGC, said staying in this weekend was of critical importance, now more than ever. “There are very large increases in cases across GGC and particularly in areas such as Inverclyde which previously had relatively low levels,” he said.

“This is due to people still mixing together and the new variant of the virus that spreads more easily. We urge everyone not to mix with anyone other than their own household at this time of such sharp increases in cases.”

He went on to remind people that we will soon be able to be vaccinated and so this harsh warning is also at time when we can say it won’t be for much longer.

“Whilst these constraints are hard on everyone, they are there for a good reason – to protect you, your friends and your family.”

Earlier this week, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon warned that the new variant – thought to spread much faster than the virus which first appeared in Scotland in the Spring – was quickly becoming the dominant COVID strain, and said Scottish Government advice to stay home, save lives and protect the NHS was more important than ever.

Dr Carter added: ““We are all painfully aware of the huge human cost that the virus has inflicted on the people across Scotland, and of all the important events which we have missed this year. With vaccination now being rolled out there really is some light at the end of the tunnel – but we are not there yet.

“Please keep that – and the safety of the most vulnerable in our society – in mind when you are deciding whether to go out or stay in this New Year.”

Dr Carter reminded people that, in addition to the current restrictions, the most effective way to keep us all safe from the virus was to follow the FACTS advice – wear a Face covering in enclosed spaces, Avoid crowded places, Clean hands and surfaces regularly, Two-metre distancing, and Self-isolate and seek a test immediately if you display symptoms.

Top New Year traditions from around the globe

New Year celebrations in most parts of the world will be extremely muted this year, but millions of us will try to mark the arrival of the 2021 in a Covid-compliant way. What are the origins of our New Year traditions?

Former primary school teacher LAURA STEELE of education resource experts PlanBee is your guide:

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 indeed to say goodbye to this year, and to welcome 2021 in the hope that it will be a better year for all.

Across the UK, on 31 December, as the clock strikes midnight, people (would, in an ordinary year) 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.

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 2 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 21 December, culminating in 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!

In Spain, on each of the twelve strokes of the clock at midnight, a grape is eaten. This is thought to bring good luck for the coming months.
Just before midnight, people in Denmark stand on chairs, ready to jump off them at midnight and ‘leap’ into January.
In Switzerland, it is traditional to drop a dollop of cream on the floor to bring a prosperous new year.
On New Year’s Eve in Greece, an onion is hung on the front door as a symbol of rebirth. On New Year’s Day, parents wake their children up by tapping them on the head with the onion!
In Brazil, people dress in white clothes to symbolise their hopes for good luck and peace for the new year. If you live near a beach, it is tradition to jump over seven waves – for each wave, you receive a wish.
Doughnuts are eaten in Germany. They ‘Pfannkuchens’ are filled with jam or liquor. As a practical joke, some may contain mustard or other unsavoury fillings – if you are unfortunate enough to choose one of these, this is seen as bad luck!
On the last day of the year, people in Columbia carry an empty suitcase around with them in the hope of a travel-filled 12 months to come.
In Estonia, on New Year’s Day, people attempt to eat either seven, nine or 12 times throughout the day. These are all lucky numbers, and it is believed that the more they eat, the more plentiful the food will be in the coming year.

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!

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.

Laura Steele was a primary school teacher for 11 years and joined PlanBee in 2016.

First Minister ‘glad to see the back of 2020’

‘To be clear: that means no gatherings, no house parties, and no first footing.‘

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon updated the Scottish Parliament yesterday:

I will give a short update on today’s statistics and a few other issues. The total number of positive cases reported yesterday was 2,045. That represents 11.3% of the total number of tests, and takes the total number of confirmed cases in Scotland to 124,831.

That is a significant number of new cases, and it demonstrates the severity of the situation we face right now.

1,133 people are currently in hospital – 41 more than yesterday. And 69 people are in intensive care, which is four more than yesterday.

I’m also sad to report that 43 additional deaths have been registered in the last 24 hours of patients who had tested positive. In total, 137 deaths have been registered in the past seven days. That takes total number of deaths, under this daily measurement, to 4,510.

National Records of Scotland have not published their usual weekly update today because not all registration offices have been open throughout the festive period. However, the figures published last week showed that the total number of deaths is now over 6,000.

Each one of those deaths is heartbreaking. And so again, I want to send my condolences to everyone who has lost a loved one.

There are three other issues I want to cover today.

The first is the Oxford/Astra Zeneca vaccine that has today been authorised for supply in the UK by the medicines regulator.

This is really good news.

It means there are now two effective Covid vaccines available for use in the UK.

The Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine is also logistically easier to deliver than the Pfizer one.

And, crucially, the UK has secured a much higher number of doses of this vaccine.

It is also now recommended that the second dose of both vaccines can be given up to 12 weeks after the first, rather then three.

That means we can now prioritise providing a first dose to as many people as possible – rather than providing the required two doses in as short a time as possible.

This will allow more people to be vaccinated more quickly.

We have been preparing for the deployment of the Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine for some time and I can confirm that it will be administered in Scotland from Monday.

As of Sunday, more than 92,000 people have already received their first shot of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.

But today’s news means that more people will get their first dose of a Covid vaccine, sooner than anticipated.

The second issue I want to touch on are the restrictions now in place across the country.

On Boxing Day, Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles, and some other island communities moved to Level 3 protections. At the same time, the rest of Scotland – the vast majority – moved to level 4.

This is not the way that any of us wanted to end 2020 – or start the new year. But these new restrictions reflect the severity of the threat posed by this new variant.

Analysis done by Public Health Scotland shows that, yesterday, 42.8% of positive tests processed for Scotland in the Lighthouse Laboratory Network had the S gene drop out that is indicative of the new strain.

That is a higher than the 38% suggested by ONS analysis for week beginning 14 December. And that in turn compared to just six per cent at the end of November.

So this new strain appears to be fast becoming the dominant one in Scotland.

And that is obviously a cause for real concern – given that it is thought to be significantly more transmissible.

As I indicated before Christmas, the severity of this challenge means we can’t rule out the need for restrictions that are even tighter than the current level 4.

We continue to assess the situation carefully, on a daily basis, and will keep Parliament updated should any changes be required over the remainder of the festive period.

As we learn more about the new variant, we also continue to review when pupils can safely return to classrooms.

The new strain has already made a normal scheduled return impossible but we continue to assess whether it will be possible to reopen schools as planned on 18 January.

That is what we all want and, to be clear, that remains our planning assumption. But we will continue to put the safety of pupils, teachers and staff first. And we will ensure as much notice as possible to parents of any changes we consider to be necessary.

For now, of course, it is vital that we all do as much as possible to suppress transmission.

That means limiting our interactions with people in other households, beyond those which are absolutely essential.

To remind everyone, our very strong advice is that people should stay at home just now, as much as possible. And when we do go out, we should stay as close to home as possible.

With a few limited exceptions, none of us should be visiting each other’s homes right now.

None of us should be travelling to other local authority areas – unless it’s for an essential purpose.

And there must be no non-essential travel between Scotland and other parts of the UK. That advice also applies to overseas travel.

We should also remember the FACTS advice:

face coverings
avoid crowded places
clean hands and surfaces
keep two metres distance from people from other households
and self-isolate, and get tested immediately, if you have symptoms.

Let me stress testing centres are open throughout the entire festive period. So if you do experience Covid symptoms, please don’t wait. Book a test immediately.

It’s worth noting that the NHS 24 Mental Health Hub is also open, over the festive period.

Support of this kind is particularly vital, at a time when so many of us are missing loved ones and normal social interaction. So if you feel the restrictions are affecting your mental health – and you need help or advice – please don’t hesitate to call the number 111.

Finally today, I want to say a few words about Hogmanay.

I know most of us, and I certainly speak for myself here, will be glad to see the back of 2020.

And today’s news about the new vaccine should give all of us greater hope for the year ahead.

But for now, it is really vital to do everything we can to suppress this virus.

To keep ourselves and our loved ones safe. And to protect the NHS.

So we must mark this new year responsibly and in line with the restrictions in place.

To be clear, that means no gatherings, no house parties, and no first footing.

Instead, we should bring in 2021 in our own homes with just our own household.

This new strain is very serious – I cannot stress that enough.

And our prospects for the rest of the year will be better if we get off to a safe start.

So I urge everyone to be responsible on Hogmanay.

I know it’s hard – particularly for young people.

But it is how we best protect ourselves and our loved ones.

It helps the NHS too. And they need our help.

In Scotland, so far, the numbers in hospital and ICU are not at the peak of the first wave. But the NHS is under pressure.

So everything we do as individuals to stop this virus spreading helps reduce the number of people who will end up in hospital and ICU beds over the next few weeks.

And that really matters.

So as this awful year draws to a close, let me again thank everyone across Scotland for your sacrifice and patience, and for looking out for each other.

We do have every reason to believe that the spring of 2021 will bring better times. But we must first get through these difficult few weeks of winter.

So let’s stick with it, and keep looking after each other.

And let me wish everyone across the chamber, and at home, when it comes, a better, brighter and happier new year.