In Scotland the holiday season only begins with Christmas – the real partying starts in the run-up to New Year. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is world famous, and it runs across several days, from a torchlit procession through the Old Town to a street party, a candlelit concert, and a bracing New Year’s Day dip.
Edinburgh Torchlight Procession
One experience loved by visitors is the Torchlight Procession, usually held on 29 December. You buy a wax-and-fire torch with your ticket, then walk with thousands of fellow torchbearers, pipers, drummers, and even Vikings. The meeting point is The Meadows and the lit parade winds through the Old Town. Honest tip: there is a fair bit of waiting – to collect your torch, to move up, to have it lit – but once the pipe band strikes up and the drums kick in, the hairs on your neck stand on end.
Night Afore Events
Filling the gap between the Torchlight Procession and Hogmanay itself, Night Afore events are staged around the city to keep everyone entertained the night before. Previous acts have included Paisley-born Paolo Nutini in Princes Street Gardens. It is a great option for anyone who wants to celebrate but can’t face the New Year’s Eve crowds.
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party
Join Edinburgh for what it bills as the world’s greatest street party. To really understand how Scots celebrate, get ready to ceilidh with strangers, party in the park, and make a pal or two before the bells. Kicking off around 9pm, expect live acts in Princes Street Gardens, Scottish music, and some hilarious silent-disco moves. As the bells welcome the New Year, there’s a firework display and a mass singalong of Auld Lang Syne.
Candlelit Concert at St Giles’ Cathedral
For a calmer but still atmospheric Hogmanay, consider the candlelit concert at St Giles’ Cathedral on the Royal Mile. The evening features a host of sopranos, tenors, and the St Giles’ Cathedral choir – a beautiful, warm alternative to the crowds outside.
The Loony Dook
On 1 January, visitors and hardy locals traditionally saw in the New Year by running into the chilly Firth of Forth with the Forth bridges as a backdrop. The official South Queensferry event no longer runs, but wild swimmers all over Scotland still make a splash – at Portobello in Edinburgh, Aberdour in Fife, and Gullane in East Lothian.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Edinburgh Torchlight Procession?
The Torchlight Procession is usually held on 29 December, starting at The Meadows and winding through the Old Town. You buy a torch with your ticket and walk with pipers and drummers.
Do I need a ticket for the Hogmanay Street Party?
Yes. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party is a ticketed event that sells out, so buy in advance. It begins around 9pm with live acts and ends with midnight fireworks and Auld Lang Syne.
Does the Loony Dook still happen?
The official South Queensferry Loony Dook no longer runs, but wild swimmers still take a New Year’s Day dip at Portobello, Aberdour, and Gullane.