Auld Lang Syne lyrics - the words in English ready for New Year 2020

Whatever your plans are for tonight and no matter how you plan on seeing in 2020 and the start of a new decade, chances are you'll probably sing Auld Lang Syne at midnight.

But does anyone actually know all the lyrics?

Given tonight is the only time of the year where you're almost expected to sing it, you can be forgiven for not actually knowing every word.

Auld Lang Syne is a tradition dating back to 1788 which is when the song was written by Robert Burns.

It is believed to be a sincere expression of friendship.

For those who do want to sing along this evening, we've listed the full lyrics below:

Should old acquaintance be forgot,

and never brought to mind?

Should old acquaintance be forgot,

and old lang syne?

Chorus:

For auld lang syne, my dear,

for auld lang syne,

we'll take a cup of kindness yet,

for auld lang syne.

And surely you’ll buy your pint cup!

and surely I’ll buy mine!

And we'll take a cup o’ kindness yet,

for auld lang syne.

Chorus

We two have run about the slopes,

and picked the daisies fine;

But we’ve wandered many a weary foot,

since auld lang syne.

Chorus

We two have paddled in the stream,

from morning sun till dine;

But seas between us broad have roared

since auld lang syne.

Chorus

And there’s a hand my trusty friend!

And give me a hand o’ thine!

And we’ll take a right good-will draught,

for auld lang syne.

Chorus

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In an old letter from 1793, the poet claimed the song is made up from notes he made after hearing an old man singing.