New Year in Edinburgh

Come to Edinburgh for New Year's Eve and experience the fun and excitement of the world's largest street party.

Every Hogmanay, Edinburgh plays host to a huge party in the city centre, as the new year is counted in. Upon the clock striking 12, Edinburgh Castle, high above the party, explodes with a massive firework display to usher in the New Year. Edinburgh is the best destination for a New Year's Break as the over 100,000 people attending the event will testify!

The New Year's celebration starts on The evening of the 31st of December, and often goes on until the 2nd of January, which is a holiday in Scotland, but not the rest of the UK. Come and join us for a wee dram, and toast in the New Year in Edinburgh.

Hogmanay

Hogmanay is the Scot's word for the last day of the year, also know as Auld Year's Night, and is followed by Ne'erday, the 1st of January.

It is traditional in Scotland to be the "first foot", or the first person to visit a friend or neighbour in the New Year. The "first foot" must bring a gift, which was traditionally coal, or salt, but is more commonly shortbread or whisky, or any other spirit, these days. The ideal candidate for the "first foot" is tall, dark and handsome, and it is important that the right person for the job is chosen, and the first foot dictates the luck the household will have for the coming year.

The custom of singing Auld Lang Syne, now popular all over the world, is still common and visitors to Edinburgh for New Year will most likely get a chance to participate, as the bells welcome in Ne'erday.

New Year Accommodation in Edinburgh

Finding a Hotel or Guest House can be tricky in Edinburgh during Christmas and the New Year, so it is advised to book your accommodation early to avoid disappointment. At Edinburgh Rooms Online, our friendly staff can assist you in finding the right accommodation for you. Call us on 0131 556 1137 or just complete our easy to use contact form.