Scottish island that still waits to celebrate New Year on 12th January

There are fifteen inhabited islands in the Outer Hebrides also known as the Western Isles (Scottish Gaelic: Na h-Eileanan Siar), off the west coast of mainland Scotland. Most celebtared the New Year on January 1st, except for one. Berneray (Scottish Gaelic: Beàrnaraigh na Hearadh) in the Sound of Harris (Caolas na Hearadh), sticks to the tradition of Oidhche Challain, the Old New Year, which is celebrated on January 12th. This is in line with the former Highland tradition of following the Julian Calendar, which was subsequently replaced by the Gregorian calendar. So on this coming Saturday, children of the island will dress up in fancy dress, visit every house on Berneray, which has a population of some 130 and recite a verse in Gaelic; all to welcome in the New Year. Most people on Berneray speak Scottish Gaelic, many as a first language.

It is an island with a rich history, with ancient sacred sites, stone circles, along with signs of Viking inhabitation. Its Gaelic name Beàrnaraig is derived from Old Norse for Bjorn's island. There is significance evidence that points to Berneray being inhabited since the Bronze Age, and maybe even before. The main industries are fishing, crofting and tourism The island is also home to a wide array of wildlife. See Berneray Community website for more information.