When it comes to New Year breaks, Scotland is the place to be and welcomes people to world-class Hogmanay events. Whether you want to join the party or enjoy a getaway to a lodge in the hills, start the New Year in Scotland.
Hogmanay, Scotland’s New Year celebration, is not to be missed and is regarded by many Scots as the biggest and most anticipated event of the year. The adoration for this mid-winter festival has spread throughout the world, as people flock to Scotland, and especially Edinburgh, for Hogmanay breaks.
Edinburgh is world-famous for its street party where nearly 100,000 people gather beneath the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle and dance their way into the New Year. There is incredible live music and entertainment and the world famous Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Midnight Fireworks. There are lots of events in the run up to, and after the 31 December, including the Torchlight Parade, the Loony Dook in the Firth of Forth and family activities in the city centre.
For a fun, family atmosphere, Glasgow holds a day of Hogmanay celebrations that includes Scottish ceilidh dancing, music and activities which finish early enough for you all to welcome the New Year in at home.
Similar celebrations take place across Scotland, where pubs and high streets welcome well wishers and venues offer ceilidhs, dinners, live music and more. Many towns and villages have their own traditions, such as The Ba’ in Kirkwall, Orkney; a mass football competition held at the beginning of January.
Several hotels and travel agents offer special Hogmanay package breaks with event tickets included. Whether you want a five-star room for two in a city centre hotel, a self-catered loch-side cabin for a quiet celebration or an exclusive venue for a great party, it’s best to book well in advance to ensure that you don’t miss out on a great start to your New Year.