@hedgerow_healing: ✨️ First Footing ✨️ Winter is a time full of strange customs and traditions that stretch well beyond Christmas and into January. First Footing is one such custom, mainly practiced in Scotland but also in some areas of Northern England and the Isle of Man. The term was first written down around the 19th century, but the actual custom has been a part of Hogmanay l/New Years Eve traditions for centuries previously. It was a folkloric tradition, practiced by household and believed to originate around the time of the viking raids. Although we do not know this for certain, and its actual origin is now lost in memory. Bringing things into a home for luck was a common theme throughout the winter, from greenery to wassailing, first footing and mumming. The emphasis was on welcoming in the new year after the darkest days of the winter, with the hope of spring on the horizon. Many households today still practice first footing by placing coal, bread/shortbread and whisky in a bag outside. One tradition says the first footer must walk in a circle around the home with the bag, and then bring it inside just after midnight. He (or she) is then greeted with cheer, food and drink. Have you ever tried this NYE custom? . . . . #hogmanay #newyearseve #firstfooting #scottishfolklore #Scotland

Seren

Open In TikTok:

Region: GB

Monday 29 December 2025 10:48:05 GMT