Scottish town to celebrate new year tonight in 300-year-old tradition

Burghead in Moray break from national tradition and celebrate their own Hogmanay which is based on the Julian calendar.

In 1752, Britian moved to the Gregorian calendar and the shift, which required the removal of 11 days from the calendar, caused confusion and even protests.

The people of Burghead, known as Brochers, decided to keep the old new year to reflect the villagers’ defiance against enforced change.

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Known as the Burning of the Clavie, the celebration takes place every January 11.

The Clavie, a barrel filled with staves (strong sticks) and tar, is mounted on a pole and carried through the town before being set alight by the Clavie King — a specially selected local.

Stops are made at various homes and landmarks, where smouldering embers are presented as tokens of good luck.

This year, the event is set to begin at 6pm on Granary Street and is estimated to finish at 7:30pm at Doorie Hill, where remnants of an ancient Pictish fort can be found.

The Clavie is placed on a stone altar and refueled until it collapses. The ceremony is said to burn away bad spirits and bring good fortune for the year ahead.

Locals then gather the burnt pieces of wood to take home for prosperity, protection, and luck in the coming year.

The Burning of the Clavie has been celebrated in some form for centuries, with its origins likely tied to pre-Christian fire rituals.

Image Credits and Reference: https://www.thenational.scot/news/24850107.scottish-town-celebrate-new-year-tonight-300-year-old-tradition/?ref=rss