Dec. 28. You can get 2022 off on the right (or left) foot with the First Footin’ annual walk Jan.. 1 at the Rural Hill plantation in Huntersville.

It’s a traditional celebration of Hogmanay, or the Scottish New Year.

11 am– Step off for the First Footin’ Walk around the farm grounds.

Noon – Stone Soup Blessing and Gathering.

The tradition

Following the Protestant Reformation in Scotland in the latter half of the 16th century, it was considered irreverent to celebrate dates of religious importance. Merriment and celebrations were reserved for Hogmanay,  (pronounced hog-muh-nay,) which combined both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day with a celebration of good will and good fortune.

The walk

Wear good walking shoes and appropriate clothing for the season.

This will be a vigorous walk around the farm’s 2.25 mile trail, event, and historic sites, stopping along the way to discuss history and folklore.

This event is free but it’s considered bad luck to show up empty handed.

What you can bring

•Fresh (please parboil), frozen (please unthaw) or canned vegetables for the soup

•Bread

•Dessert

•Soft drinks, tea or non-alchoholic beverage

•Bowls, plates, napkins, eating utensils

Historic Rural Hill is located on Neck Road in Huntersville.