The Legend of Hogmanay
The Magical First Footer
Once upon a time, in the heart of Scotland, people celebrated a special night called Hogmanay. This was the night before the New Year, and everyone was happy and excited! They would gather with their families and friends to say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new one.
A very important tradition on Hogmanay was the story of the "First Footer." A First Footer was the first person to enter a home after the clock struck midnight. This person was special because it was believed they could bring good luck for the whole year!
People would prepare for this moment by making sure their doors were unlocked, and they would even have treats ready to share with their First Footer. It was often said that the best First Footer was a tall, dark-haired person!
When the clock chimed twelve, everyone would cheer, and the lucky First Footer would step inside. They would bring gifts like coal for warmth, bread for food, and whiskey for cheer. Everyone would smile and wish each other a Happy New Year. From that day on, they believed that having good luck for the year would follow the First Footer's visit!
Now, every Hogmanay, families around Scotland still wait for their First Footer, inspired by the magic of old traditions that bring everyone closer together. And that is the story of the First Footer and how Hogmanay became a night of joy, laughter, and good fortune!
Hogmanay Cards
Supplies Needed:
- Colorful paper or cardstock
- Glue
- Markers
- Scissors
- Decorative Items (Optional): Stickers, glitter, washi tape, or fabric scraps to add an extra flair.
- Images and Stencils: Provide images of traditional Scottish symbols such as thistles, tartan patterns, bagpipes and kilts. (you can find images at scotlandintheclass.com/images)
Instructions:
- Fold your card stock in half to create the card.
- Cut out the Scottish cultural symbols to decorate the front of the card.
- Adding Hogmanay Greetings on the front or inside.
