Hogmanay

The origins of New Year's Eve, or Hogmanay as the Scots term has it. Hugh Douglas takes the reader from the remotest beginnings of the festival through 18th- and 19th-century developments and up to the millennium. The book explores many of the puzzling aspects of the New Year's celebrations, including: why a tall, dark stranger at midnight?; why carrying a lump of coal; and why can the first-foot never be a fair person no matter how firm a friend? The author also explores how the name "Hogmanay" was derived and what it means, and offers songs and food and drink recipes. A Hangover Helpline is also provided for those who have over-indulged!. The Hogmanay Companion: Millennium Edition.