January 2: Hogmanay

January 2 is the concluding day of the Hogmanay celebrations, particular to the Scottish part of the world. The origins of the Hogmanay celebration can be traced back to pre-Christian observances in mid-winter.

January 2: Hogmanay Traditions

These celebrations are marked by many traditions that people in Scotland have been following since many centuries. These include:
•    Large fires to bring the sun back towards the earth. Fire balls, made of paper, tar and wire, are attached to a nonflammable rope or chain. As a part of the procession, these are swung around the heads of people. After the evening ends, these burning balls are thrown into the harbor.
•    Feast of the food harvested in the autumn.

Hogmanay Customs: Popular Dishes

Initially, in Scotland, this celebration was more popular than Christmas. Some of the popular dishes on the day of Hogmanay are:

•    Small Scotch pancakes with smoked salmon or butter
•    Rumbledethumps (boiled potatoes and turnips mashed with fried cabbage)
•    Seven-cup steamed pudding with dried fruits and spices
•    Black bun (a pastry case filled with spices and dried fruits soaked in brandy)