5 Things to Do For New Year's Eve in Edinburgh
Where to Celebrate Hogmanay in the Scottish Capital
New Year’s Eve in Edinburgh is one of the best times to visit Scotland’s capital. It’s a top destination for celebrating the end of December and the start of January. Combine the nation’s famous hospitality with historic traditions and you get Hogmanay – a uniquely Scottish take on the typical New Year celebration that you just have to experience to believe.
Edinburgh is a huge place and New Year’s Eve is only one night, with a lot going on all at once. To get the most out of the experience, it’s best to know what your options are, which is why we’ve prepared this list of the best things to do for New Year’s Eve in Edinburgh.
1. Wander the streets with the glittering Torchlight Procession
Events kick off in style
Good for: Photo, Nightlife, Budget
Join thousands of torchbearers opening the annual Hogmanay celebrations as you light up the streets of Edinburgh, or more specifically the historic Royal Mile, in the iconic Torchlight Procession. Starting out from one of 3 main points in Edinburgh’s Old Town: North Bridge, South Bridge, or St. Giles Cathedral, march to the beat of pipers, drummers, and fanfare for a truly authentic New Year’s Eve celebration.
For those wanting to witness the blazing “river of fire”, you won’t need to spend a dime. But you’ll need to pick up a torch or wristband to take part in the procession. Read more
Wander the streets with the glittering Torchlight Procession
2. Join hands and sing ‘Auld Lang Syne’ at the Street Party
The lyrics can be found online
Good for: History, Nightlife
Hogmanay in itself is one big party, but you can pick up tickets for the authentic Street Party, one of the best-known events during Edinburgh’s 3-day celebration. This all-night jamboree lasts for 7 hours, taking place along the length of Princes Street with DJ sets, live music, street theater, funfair attractions, and delicious hot street food.
Watch the fireworks explode over Edinburgh castle as you share the celebrations with your fellow partygoers. Then, join hands with your new-found friends and warm up those pipes with a round of Auld Lang Syne. Read more
Join hands and sing ‘Auld Lang Syne’ at the Street Party
Good for: Nightlife
For more traditional tunes amid such energetic celebrations, make your way to the beautiful surroundings of St. Giles’ Cathedral for a classical candlelit concert to welcome in the new year. If the historic crown steeple and stained glass windows don’t blow you away, the acoustic sounds of the live orchestral performance certainly will.
Accompanied by the St. Giles’ Cathedral Choir, the candlelit sounds of this atmospheric setting right in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town provide a moment of calm before the city’s wilder celebrations take place. Read more
Attend a classical candlelit concert
4. Dance the night away in celebration
From clubbing to ceilidh
Good for: Couples, History, Nightlife
Edinburgh’s club scene on Hogmanay is vibrant and diverse, with venues offering everything from underground techno and house to funk, indie, and bass. Book well in advance for top venues like Caberet Voltaire, La Belle Angele, or Sneaky Pete’s. Parties run late into the night, often past 5am, with energetic crowds, immersive visuals, and top DJs creating unforgettable New Year’s celebrations across the city.
Or, how about a ceilidh? Venues such as The Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club offer a night of upmarket elegance, while Greyfriars Charteris Centre calls all its dances to help beginners join in the fun. Expect live ceilidh bands and traditional pipers, and book ahead for a traditional Gaelic holiday party.
5. Get your game face on with the New Year’s Sprint
There are prizes to be won
Good for: Adventure, Families, Unusual
New Year’s doesn’t have to be all about wild street parties, magical musical moments, and spectacular firework celebrations. You could also spend it by gearing up for Edinburgh’s iconic New Year’s Sprint. Hosted annually on or around New Year’s Day since 1870, this handicap race sees both amateur and professional competitors vying for cash prizes for first, second, and third place.
The race runs over 120 yards at the Musselburgh Racecourse, and also features the Hogmaneigh Hurdle, a jump racing event that’s popular for get-togethers between family and friends.
Get your game face on with the New Year's Sprint
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