If there’s one way to start your year on a high note, it is with a Hogmanay celebration in Scotland!

Hogmanay—Scotland’s iconic New Year’s Eve celebration is a fiery, soulful celebration! It is a centuries-old tradition brimming with history, festivity, and the kind of warmth that makes even the frostiest Scottish winter night glow. Rooted in Viking customs of marking the winter solstice with wild revelries, Hogmanay has evolved into a uniquely Scottish affair that draws people from all over the world to share in its magic.

It’s one particular night where strangers become friends, bagpipes sing through the cold air, and Auld Lang Syne binds thousands of voices into one. As fireworks light up the sky, the streets are alive with laughter and music, and a palpable sense of camaraderie,warm Highland hospitality, and that signature Scottish zest for life.

Hogmanay in Edinburgh

When it comes to Hogmanay celebrations, Edinburgh is nothing short of extraordinary, offering everything from the world-famous Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party to intimate ceilidhs will have you spinning and laughing to traditional Scottish tunes.

The Torchlight Procession paints the streets with flickering flames, winding through the city like a river of light before culminating in a sky-splitting fireworks display above Edinburgh Castle. The streets come alive with live music, street performers, and that unmistakable Edinburgh energy.

And just as the clock strikes midnight, the city erupts, against the backdrop of historic spires and cobbled streets, like a page pulled straight from an old fable.

Explore Edinburgh and Join In the Torchlight Procession

On the 29th of December, start the day with a stroll through the city’s Christmas markets. Meander through wooden chalets brimming with handmade crafts, local delicacies, and warming mulled wine.

As dusk falls, join the Torchlight Procession, a spellbinding event that sets the city ablaze. Follow a river of fire as it winds through the historic Old Town, passing landmarks like Greyfriars Kirkyard and the National Museum of Scotland. The evening culminates with a fiery finale beneath the majestic Edinburgh Castle.

Highlight: This year’s procession is led by the Shetland’s South Mainland Up Helly Aa’ Jarl Squad, marking a modern twist in this time-honoured tradition.

Highland Hospitality and Hogmanay Traditions

Start your day with a hearty traditional Scottish breakfast—black pudding, tattie scones, and homemade local preserves. On the Night Afore, get ready to dance the night away at the Hot Dub Time Machine Disco Party in West Princes Street Gardens, or head to the Assembly Rooms for a night of indie rock with the renowned Idlewild and special guest performances.

The Last Day Of The Year, The Scots Way!

Spend your afternoon wandering through the charming local boutiques or exploring one of Edinburgh’s many fascinating museums, before gearing up for the grand Hogmanay celebrations.

The final day of the year is packed with excitement, from the Concert in the Gardens, featuring headliners Texas and special guest Callum Beattie, to the iconic Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party. With live bands, DJs, ceilidh dancing, street theatre, and, of course, the breathtaking Midnight Fireworks, there’s no shortage of festivities to enjoy. As the clock strikes midnight, join the crowd in singing Auld Lang Syne, a timeless tradition that pays tribute to Scotland’s rich cultural heritage. The Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party will host 45,000 revelers, uniting people from all over the world to ring in 2025 with joy, friendship, and unforgettable memories, all leading up to the highly anticipated Midnight Moment.

A Relaxed New Year’s Day with The Roseate Edinburgh

Ease into the New Year with a serene countryside retreat. Venture to the picturesque Pentland Hills for a leisurely walk, or plan an invigorating stay at The Roseate Edinburgh. Ideal for quiet and precious celebrations with loved ones, relishing Scotland’s finest whiskies, or starting the new year on an indulgent, luxurious note, every guest finds what they are looking for with us.

To make the most of your stay, you can also avail our Hogmanay Luxury Celebration Package. We are including two complimentary tickets to the Edinburgh Hogmanay Celebrations for bookings of three days and more!

Festive Dining At The Roseate Edinburgh

There is also no better place to retreat and soak in the festive spirit than The Roseate Edinburgh. After a stay filled with local traditions, such as the Torchlight Procession and the iconic Auld Lang Syne sing-along, step back into the luxurious embrace of the hotel.

When it comes to festive dining, The Roseate Edinburgh offers an unforgettable experience that truly embodies the best of Scottish tradition. Think smoked salmon starters, hearty venison mains, and a whisky-infused desserts to finish.

Insider Tip: Ask the sommelier for a pairing recommendation from our curated collection of single malts—it’s a quintessentially Scottish way to begin your journey!

At the in-house restaurant, The Dunstane Restaurant & Bar, the holiday season is celebrated with a sumptuous three-course Christmas feast. Each dish is prepared with locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a true taste of Scotland. From tender meats to indulgent desserts, every bite is a celebration! Whether you’re joining us for a relaxed lunch or a more refined evening dinner, you can savour the flavours of Scotland at their best.

For lunch, indulge in a two-course menu for £35.95 or a three-course meal for £47.95. In the evening, enjoy a similarly exquisite experience, with two courses for £42.95 or three courses for £54.95. This festive dining experience at The Roseate Edinburgh promises to be a highlight of your visit, where the spirit of Scotland is reflected not just in the surroundings but in every delicious bite.

Discover Hogmanay Beyond Edinburgh

For those eager to venture beyond the capital, Scotland’s charming towns and villages offer their own distinctive take on Hogmanay, each infused with local traditions and a unique festive spirit.

• Stonehaven Fireballs: In the coastal town of Stonehaven, locals parade the streets with fiery orbs, ringing in the New Year with a dazzling display of strength and dexterity. The event culminates in a stunning firework display over the harbor.
• Burghead’s Burning of the Clavie: On 11th January, embrace an “Old Hogmanay” tradition in Burghead. A flaming barrel of staves is carried through the town and set ablaze on Doorie Hill, marking the New Year with smoldering embers said to bring good fortune.

Each of these traditions is steeped in folklore and offers an intimate glimpse into Scotland’s spirited heritage.

We invite you to experience a celebration and bring in the new year like you have never before at the ‘Home of the Hogmanay.’