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In England and Scotland, the New Year traditions are closely similar.
Based on an old Scottish tradition, the first person to enter the house on New Year’s Day is called "the first footer".
According to tradition, the first person to set foot into a home on New Year's Day will decide the family's luck for the rest of the year, and the person most welcome is a tall, dark haired man, especially if he has brought a gift.
The man’s handsome features are believed to promise a pleasant year while the gift, especially if it is a loaf of bread, money or some coal, will ensure that there is no lack of food or warmth in the house.
Those who stick closely to tradition in Scotland observe Hogmanay or Night of the Candle, as the New Year is called.
Three-cornered biscuits called Hogmanays are eaten, along with special wine, cordial, cheese, haggis, bread, and shortbread.
Some people burn juniper branches and carry them throughout the house to cleanse it.
At night, bonfires are lit and a straw figure representing the old year is often thrown into the fire.
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