What’s on in Edinburgh this Hogmanay

What better place to ring in the New Year than in Edinburgh? Hogmanay, the Scots word for New Year’s Eve, is one of Scotland’s favourite and well-loved traditions. From street parties and concerts to dining experiences and ceilidhs, there’s something that will certainly suit every taste. Read our guide to find out what’s on in Edinburgh this Hogmanay.

Hogmanay the Fingal Way
Step aboard the former Northen Lighthouse Board tender to celebrate Hogmanay in nautical style. In Fingal Hotel’s stunning Ballroom, a magical evening will be had with glasses of fizz, live music and Scottish fare. A piper will play in the New Year, followed by a sabrage, using Fingal’s ceremonial sword. A traditional dram, delicious stovies and a spectacular balloon drop will mark the start of the year ahead.

Before you celebrate into the night, begin the festivities with dinner in the onboard Lighthouse Restaurant. For the ultimate New Year experience, stay in one of Fingal’s beautiful, nautical-inspired cabins and start the year with a mouthwatering breakfast in the restaurant.
Two women enjoying a drink in The Lighthouse Restaurant.

Edinburgh Street Party
Every year, Princes Street, located in the heart of the city, is transformed into the venue for one of the most well-known street parties in the world. With Edinburgh Castle as a dramatic backdrop, there’s no better place to see in 2027. Spend the last hours of 2026 enjoying a variety of street food and dancing the night away to live music and DJs. Pipers and drummers will help you count down to the start of the bells and the iconic fireworks display.

A New Year celebration aboard The Royal Yacht Britannia
Celebrate an unforgettable New Year’s Eve in true Royal style aboard The Royal Yacht Britannia. Guests will board the Yacht via the Royal Brow, and enjoy Champagne, canapés and a guided tour of the magnificent State Apartments.

A four-course menu, prepared in the original Royal Galley, will be paired with wines selected by the Sommelier and served in the historic State Dining Room. Gather on the Royal Deck as midnight approaches for Auld Lang Syne, followed by a night of dancing.
Guests are seated at the table in the State Dining Room being served dinner.

Torchlight Procession
On 29 December the streets of the city turn into a spectacular river of fire. The Torchlight Procession sees thousands of people carrying flaming torches from the Meadows, through the Old Town and finishing in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle. Expect to see fire performers, pipers and drummers during the procession, all lead by Massed Pipes & Drums and Vikings from Shetland’s South Mainland Up Helly Aa’ Jarl Squad.
Edinburgh Hogmanay Torchlight Procession

Night Afore Concert
Princes Street Gardens will come alive with a night of music. The Night Afore concert is the perfect way to start your Hogmanay celebrations! Past performers include Peat & Diesel, Björn Again and Sophie Ellis-Bextor.

Loony Dook
On the first day of the New Year hundreds of people, often decked out in fancy dress, descend on the shores of the Firth of Forth in South Queensferry to take part in the famous Loony Dook. Cheered on by spectators against the picturesque backdrop of the Forth Bridges, participants plunge into the chilly waters for a refreshing and unforgettable start to the year. The event also raises funds for local charities.
The Loony Dook on New Years Day

Read our blog Edinburgh at Christmas: Your ultimate festive guide to find out what else is on in the city during the festive season.