The celebrations start with a Torchlight Parade on the 29th December; a program of street theatre will play in the Old Town and concerts will fill the air with music.
Scotland - Hogmanay
The Hogmanay street party on New Years Eve lasts for three nights, with live music and theatre on stages all along Princes Street. The crowds gather in the gardens to await the spectacular firework display when the bells ring in the New Year at midnight. There are classical and pop concerts, pipe bands and song and dance all the way along the Royal Mile which stretches from the Castle to Holyrood Palace.
Hogmanay - Explore Edinburgh
Edinburgh has a lot to offer aside from the Hogmanay festivities. It is often described as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Even when seen in the pale sunshine of a winter afternoon one can see why, especially in the Neo-classical New Town whose construction began in the late 18th century. South of the Princes Street divide lies the medieval Old Town whose narrow, smoky, streets once gave the city its other (not so complimentary) nickname of 'Auld Reekie' ('Old Smokey'). However, the Old Town has been carefully restored and is a delight to walk around.
Hogmanay - Princes Street
Take a stroll along Princes Street. Although still one of the most elegant streets in Europe it has been somewhat spoilt over the years by the invasion of chain stores. What saves it, however, is Princes Street Gardens on the south side. In 1834 the American writer Nathaniel Willis described it as a "broad and deep ravine planted with trees and shrubbery". It's much the same today and is a great spot for a stroll . You pass one of Edinburgh's most famous landmarks, the intricate Gothic monument to Sir Walter Scott, with wonderful bird's eye views from the top. A gentle morning stroll along here would be the perfect antidote to a Hogmany hangover.
Hogmanay - Traditional Scottish Hospitality
Winter days are short in this most northern part of the British Isles but don't be put off; make the most of the daylight hours and when darkness falls there is plenty of traditional Scottish hospitality in cosy pubs where you can enjoy a 'wee dram'" and a chat with the locals - they're nowhere near as dour as they're made out to be - especially when Hogmanay is still lingering and a "Happy New Year!" is wished to one and all.
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