Lights on at Locke: How to celebrate Hogmanay in Edinburgh

Perhaps because Christmas was virtually banned in Scotland for around 400 years, for many Scots Hogmanay is winter’s main event – which makes it a great time to visit the city. Although technically Hogmanay is just one day, celebrations often last three or four… All the better for making the most of your time in the capital. Here’s how to celebrate in style. 

Before you arrive: Learn the words to Auld Lang Syne 

Okay, think of this one as pre-reading. Because, trust us, you’ll feel really silly when everyone joins hands (you’ve been warned) and starts singing at the top of their lungs, but you’ve no choice but to helplessly mime. The title – which loosely translates as “time gone by” or “old time’s sake” – and words are attributed to Scottish poet, Robert Burns. But make no mistake: this is practically a national anthem. 

Should old acquaintance be forgot 

And never brought to mind? 

Should old acquaintance be forgot 

In the days of auld lang syne? 

For auld lang syne, my dear 

For auld lang syne 

We'll drink a cup of kindness yet 

For the sake of auld lang syne 

And surely, you will buy your cup 

And surely, I'll buy mine! 

We'll take a cup of kindness yet 

For the sake of auld lang syne 

We two who've paddled in the stream 

From morning sun 'til night 

The seas between us roared and swelled 

Since the days of auld lang syne 

For old acquaintance be forgot 

And never brought to mind 

Should old acquaintance be forgot 

For the sake of auld lang syne? 

For old acquaintance be forgot 

And never brought to mind 

Should old acquaintance be forgot 

In the days of auld lang syne? 

For auld lang syne, my dear 

For auld lang syne 

We'll drink a cup of kindness yet 

For the sake of auld lang syne 

30th December: Take part in a torchlight procession 

A nod to Scotland’s Viking routes (the fiery torches symbolise rebirth and the warding away of evil spirits), this a Hogmanay spectacle not to be missed. Led by Shetland’s Up Helly Aa Vikings in traditional costume, accompanied by pipes and drums, the procession starts from The Meadows (20 minutes’ walk from Eden Locke), passing the National Museum of Scotland, Greyfriars Kirkyard and the National Library of Scotland, before finishing at Castle Terrace beneath Edinburgh Castle. You can sign up to carry a torch (tickets are limited and sell out quickly – here are tips on getting them), but there are plenty of spots to spectate, too. The procession ends with a fireworks display over Calton Hill – the first of many throughout the celebrations. 

Wondering where to grab a drink before or after the procession? Check out our guide to Edinburgh's best bars. 

31st December: Celebrate at Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party 

Set against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle (20 minutes’ walk from Eden Locke), this world-famous street party sees around 45,000 revelers from around the world gather to welcome in the new year. Your ticket (which we recommend buying well in advance) gives you access to an entertainment bonanza featuring live music, DJs, international street theatre, pipers, drummers, and funfair attractions. This year, the pièce de résistance is a world-class fireworks display from pyrotechnic wizards Titanium. 

1st January: Take a bracing dip in the North Sea 

Hear us out: this is actually a thing – fittingly named ‘Loony Dook’. If you’re feeling brave, join around 1,000 people in their finest fancy dress travelling to South Queensferry on the shores of the Forth of Firth, just north of Edinburgh. (From Eden Locke you can catch the 43 bus from Princes Street to The Loan in 45 minutes.) There you’ll fall into a procession – led by the Town Crier and the Lord Provost of Edinburgh – down to the beach and into the freezing waters. All accompanied by bagpipes, obviously. That’s one way to wash away your hangover. 

1st January: Enjoy a slap-up New Year’s Day meal 

Once you’ve dried off and warmed up, it’s back to the city to start the year as you mean to go on: with a tempting plate of grub in front of you at all times (just us?). Looking for fancy flavours? Book a table at The Outsider. Craving hearty Scottish pub fare? Head to The Scran & Scallie. Or maybe you want to get a head-start on resolutions with plant-based goodness at Seeds For The Soul. For all this and more inspiration, check out our guide to the best restaurants for tourists in Edinburgh.