Forget sitting in front of the TV and watching the ball drop in Times Square—the best New Year’s party is happening at Edinburgh’s Hogmanay (pronounced “hug-meh-nay”). From December 31st through January 1st, tradition sends many Scots to clean their houses and settle debts, all in the name of getting a fresh start. When night falls, however, the Hogmanay celebration is in full swing with fireworks, parades and performances, all with a Scottish twist.
There are various theories about the roots of today’s festival. One places the origins in the pagan festivities of Samhain (pronounced “sah-when”), but it’s more likely that the festival was inherited from the Vikings, who celebrated the shortest day of the year and were practically neighbors to the earliest Scots. The celebration went underground during the Protestant Reformation and reemerged in the 17th century.
Say to the world… I WAS THERE. At the BEST. PARTY. EVER! Join people from around the world to bring in the New Year at one of the world’s biggest and best outdoor parties with live music, DJs, street entertainment and the ultimate fireworks display from Edinburgh Castle. From the moment the doors open at 7 pm, till after the midnight bells have fallen silent, bands and DJs, street performers and dancers, acrobats, disco divas and fire eaters will all combine to make it the party of a lifetime. Every great party needs a host and we’re delighted that the 2018 Street Party will be hosted by Sanjeev Kohli (Still Game, BBC). At midnight, the ultimate fireworks display will mark the end of the old year and usher in 2018 set against the iconic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
Celebrate Hogmanay in spectacular style at the Concert in the Gardens main stage, featuring festival headliner Rag’n’Bone Man, plus supporting acts Declan McKenna and Edinburgh’s own Nina Nesbitt. Rag’n’Bone Man released his debut album Human in February to mass critical acclaim, going platinum within just 3 weeks and selling more than three quarters of a million copies in the UK to date. He has won two BRIT Awards and sold out tours across the UK and Europe. With amazing views of both the main stage and the fireworks, this really is your ticket to the ultimate, memorable Hogmanay experience. At midnight, say goodbye to 2017 and welcome in 2018 with the best views in the house of the fireworks over Edinburgh Castle.