

New Year, January 1st. The most important custom of this winter holiday, which is invariably revered by the British, is the tradition of the first guest. If a dark-haired man comes into the house after midnight, then next year will be a good one for this family. The guest should bring a coal with him and, without saying a word, throw it into the fireplace, and only after that congratulate the hosts. This custom means that peace and prosperity will reign in the house.

Holidays in England
(Rainbow)

Chimney Sweeps Festival, May 1. The British believe that a meeting with a chimney sweep is a very good sign that brings good luck and happiness. Therefore, they are very often invited to weddings. This tradition originated a long time ago, from the time when the hard work of chimney sweeps was revered – they were respected at all times and considered noble people.

St. Andrew's Day is the patron saint of Scotland, which is also a symbol of the country and its people. The national flag even depicts the St. Andrew's Cross, known all over the world. Every year on November 30, the indigenous people remember the good deeds done by the Great Martyr and hold special rites. On this day, parties are organized, decorated in a national style and accompanied by folk dances, songs and playing the bagpipes. It is customary to put traditional food on the table.

Halloween is one of the most popular holidays in Scotland, which also originated thanks to the Celts. It is celebrated on October 31, on the eve of All Saints' Day. On this day, children dress up in various costumes, go to the neighbors and collect candy. It is customary to decorate streets and houses with garlands, artificial cobwebs, figures of spiders, bats and pumpkins.

Walpurgis Night is a holiday celebrated in Scotland on April 30 and May 1, when, according to legend, witches gather for a sabbath. This event began to be celebrated thanks to the ancient Celts, who were very sensitive to traditions, because from that day they had summer coming. For this reason, all actions were dedicated to the sun and fertility. Since the Catholic Church forbade events in honor of "evil spirits", this day is officially dedicated to the Walburg nun. She worked real miracles, and after her death she was canonized.

Robert Burns' birthday is a favorite national poet, whose work Scots are proud of, so January 25 is declared a public holiday here. Burns is considered a hero of the country, a great asset and talent. On this day, the locals arrange a special dinner, called Burns Supper (Burns Supper). There are always traditional dishes on the table, for example, cranichen, haggis, turnips and potatoes, and they wash down the food with strong scotch. Theatrical performances take place on the streets, people dress up in old costumes and exchange jokes.

Holidays in Scotland (Forward)




Traditions & Holidays of Wales

British Holidays and Traditions