How Can You Experience the Best of Hogmanay in Edinburgh?

The Hogmanay celebrations in Edinburgh are renowned for their spectacular midnight firework display over Edinburgh Castle, marking the beginning of the New Year in Scotland's capital. While this iconic event is a highlight, the festivities span several days, featuring a range of entertainment options from torchlight processions to live music, ceilidhs, and family-friendly activities. As we approach Hogmanay 2026, here's what visitors can expect from this vibrant celebration.

Last updated: 28 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Edinburgh is gearing up for an exciting Hogmanay celebration, which will commence on 29 December 2025, featuring a range of events that cater to diverse tastes. The festivities will attract thousands of visitors, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the city. With a mix of traditional Scottish events and contemporary entertainment, this year's celebrations promise to be memorable.

Key takeaways

The Hogmanay celebrations begin on 29 December 2025 and run until 1 January 2026.
Highlights include the torchlight procession, street party, ceilidhs, and live concerts.
Tickets are required for the street party and the Concert in the Gardens, with prices starting from £33 and £73, respectively.

Timeline: how we got here

As the city prepares for Hogmanay 2026, here's a brief timeline of key events leading up to the celebrations:

29 December 2025: Torchlight procession begins at the Meadows and proceeds through the Old Town.
30 December 2025: Night Afore Concerts and various entertainment events across the city.
31 December 2025: Street party, ceilidhs, and the midnight fireworks display.
1 January 2026: Loony Dook and First Footin' music trail events throughout the day.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

This year's Hogmanay will see a variety of new acts and performances added to the programme, alongside beloved traditional events. The Concert in the Gardens will be headlined by the indie rock band Wet Leg, along with performances from Scottish artists, enhancing the local flavour of the celebrations.

What was already established

The traditional elements of Hogmanay, such as the torchlight procession, street party, ceilidh dancing, and the famous midnight fireworks, remain a staple of the celebrations. Edinburgh's Hogmanay has a longstanding reputation for bringing together locals and visitors for a festive atmosphere filled with music, dance, and culture.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For many, Edinburgh's Hogmanay represents a significant occasion to celebrate the New Year. Visitors can expect increased demand for accommodation, dining, and transportation services during the festivities. The street party and concert will draw large crowds, so it's advisable for attendees to book tickets and plan their travel in advance.

Businesses and jobs

The influx of visitors during Hogmanay provides a vital boost to local businesses. Hospitality venues, transportation services, and event organisers will benefit from the increased footfall. However, businesses must also prepare for the logistical challenges presented by large crowds, including staffing and resource management.

Policy and regulation

With the anticipated large gatherings, local authorities will implement safety measures to ensure public safety during the events. This includes road closures, security personnel, and emergency services on standby. It is crucial for attendees to adhere to any guidelines set by event organisers and local authorities.

Numbers that matter

£33: Cost of a ticket for the Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party.
£73: Starting price for tickets to the Concert in the Gardens.
3 days: Duration of the Hogmanay celebrations, from 29 December 2025 to 1 January 2026.
Thousands: Expected attendees for the street party and other events throughout the city.
500ml: Maximum capacity for cans allowed at the street party per person.

Definitions and jargon buster

Hogmanay: The Scottish celebration of New Year's Eve, characterised by festivities and customs unique to Scotland.
Ceilidh: A traditional Scottish social gathering featuring folk music and dancing.
Loony Dook: A quirky tradition where participants take a dip in icy waters on New Year's Day, often in fancy dress.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the celebrations approach, attendees should secure tickets for events as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Planning travel and accommodation well in advance is also advisable, given the high demand during this period.

Medium term (1–6 months)

After Hogmanay, local businesses will evaluate the success of the events and their impact on the community. This may influence future planning for similar celebrations and community events.

Signals to watch

Ticket sales and availability for events.
Updates from local authorities regarding safety measures and regulations.
Weather forecasts leading up to the events, as this could impact attendance and outdoor festivities.

Practical guidance

Do

Book tickets early to secure your spot at desired events.
Dress warmly and comfortably for outdoor festivities.
Plan your travel routes in advance and utilise public transport where possible.

Don’t

Don’t bring glass containers or alcohol exceeding the specified limits to the street party.
Don’t forget to check for any last-minute updates from event organisers regarding schedule changes.
Don’t overlook the importance of staying hydrated and nourished during the celebrations.

Checklist

Secure your tickets for the street party and concerts.
Arrange accommodation in advance if travelling from outside Edinburgh.
Check the event timetable and plan which activities you want to attend.
Review local transport options and festive timetables.
Prepare for potential weather changes by dressing in layers.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Edinburgh's Hogmanay is a time of celebration, there are inherent risks associated with large gatherings, including crowd control and safety concerns. Weather conditions can also affect the events, so attendees should remain flexible in their plans. It is advisable to stay updated on any changes to the event schedule and to follow guidance from local authorities regarding safety precautions.

Bottom line

The Hogmanay celebrations in Edinburgh offer a unique blend of traditional Scottish festivities and modern entertainment, drawing thousands to the city for New Year’s. As the date approaches, it’s essential to plan ahead to ensure an enjoyable experience while being mindful of safety measures and local regulations.

FAQs

What are the main events during Edinburgh's Hogmanay celebrations?

The main events include the torchlight procession, street party, ceilidhs, and concerts featuring popular bands, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display at midnight.

How much do tickets for the Hogmanay events cost?

Tickets for the Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party cost £33, while the Concert in the Gardens starts at £73. Early booking is recommended due to high demand.

What is the Loony Dook?

The Loony Dook is a quirky New Year’s Day tradition where brave participants take a dip in the cold waters of the Firth of Forth, often dressed in fancy costumes, as a way to clear the hangover from the night before.