Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 2022

Written By: Gail Clifford | Published By: Weekend Notes

Event: 30/12/2022 – 01/01/2023

It’s that time of year again … parties, concerts, and outdoor and indoor activities. If you have the chance to get to Edinburgh, go for one of the best New Year’s Eve parties in the world!

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is a 3-day festival where the world comes to party, to celebrate the New Year. My great-great-grandfather was born in Edinburgh, so it was especially moving for my family to walk the paths he did as a lad. Edinburgh is a great place to start your exploration of Scotland’s holiday celebrations. While our favourite experience, the torch bearers ceremony, is not available this year, here’s what’s up this year:

The 150th anniversary 1872 Cup pits rivals the Edinburgh Rugby vs. the Glasgow Warriors for epic bragging rights. Called the “World’s Oldest Intercity Derby,” it’s held at Murrayfield Stadium Dec 30th, go early to enjoy the 7:35 p.m. kick-off for your rugby-loving family members. If you haven’t witnessed rugby before, this is a great opportunity to get involved and root for your favourite team.

Pro Tip: Book early for the best seats.

New Year’s Day Triathlon January 1, 2023
Get your year off to a dashing start with this 26th triathlon with a pool swim (400m), 12-mile bike (3 laps of Holyrood Park), and running one lap. It’s bound to give adults and children alike a great adrenaline boost to the day.https://www.facebook.com/NYDtri

Ice Skating
Edinburgh ice rink on George Street, between Charlotte Square and Castle Street, allows you and your little ones time to skate off some energy and enjoy family time in the middle of the city with all the festive lights and snow-scented air tingling your nose.

Lights
Castle of Light: A Kingdom of Colours
December 30
Edinburgh Castle presents a beautiful illumination ceremony with its family-friendly trail expanding to include new light installations. As you’re guided through this medieval fortress, learn the story of the castle, and the way Scotland became part of the United Kingdom.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to snap the perfect shot in the tunnel of light!

Magic
MagicFest December 30th 2pm & 7pm performances – Saturday 31 December: 2pm
Church Hill Theatre presents (for those 7 ) 75 minutes with the origins of Hogmanay as told by music, storytelling, comedy, and magic. You’ll learn the provenance of “tall dark stranger” and pick up 500 years of Hogmanay traditions.

Music and Dance
The Roxy Theatre December 30 8 p.m. -11:30p.m.

The Alan Crookston Ceilidh Band presents“Countdown to Hogmanay” and the Festival of Cilidhs with music that’ll keep your feet stomping with boisterous and relentless fun. Dances are called, starting at 8 p.m. with those under 18 years welcome until 11 p.m.

Night Afore Disco Party December 30th
If Disco is your game, has Edinburgh got the party for you! Located in the West Princes Street Gardens, you’ll have the chance to kick start your Hogmanay celebrations with new and classic sounds with Forth 1. Bonus points for those who pack a disco outfit to wear under your parka, or attach a disco ball to your toque.

New Year’s Eve December 31st
The big night has finally arrived, and the Concert in the West Princes Street Gardens will find pop legends, the Pet Shop Boys headlining Edinburgh’s Hogmanay.

While you needn’t purchase the concert tickets if you just want to attend the Street Party, we recommend the concert and Street Party combination for the full experience. This year, Street Party revellers’ LED wristbands are expected to act as part of the show at the Midnight Moment lighting up Princes Street.