Are you looking for a New Year’s Eve filled with music, fireworks, and tradition? If so, then Scotland is the place for you.
Hogmanay is the Scottish word for the last day of the old year and typically refers to a range of celebrations spread over three days.
From big cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow to smaller, surrounding areas, there is a range of celebrations to choose from. The good news is that you don’t need to do the research to find the perfect new year celebration - we’ve listed a few here to get you started!
Three-Day Celebration in Edinburgh
Did you know that Edinburgh is home to one of the biggest celebrations in all of Scotland? Kick-starting the festivities, West Princess Street Gardens will be hosting a party on December 30.
After a short recovery period, the annual Hogmanay Street Party will be held against the breathtaking backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. It’s here that you will welcome in the new year admiring the fireworks display and taking part in the traditional Auld Lang Syne.
If these events have tired you out, wake yourself up by taking a dip in the River Forth for the fancy dress Loony Dook.
Hogmanay in Glasgow
Spending Hogmanay in Glasgow means that you’ll find something for everyone.
Starting with the Baby Disco at the Alphen Bar, families will be able to dance the day away together. As the sun sets, Gunna will provide live music and entertainment for those who want to keep the party going.
If you’re wanting to explore a little more, there will be a number of other parties held across George Square and the rest of the city as well.
Stonehaven’s Fireball Parade
The Fireball Parade is a tradition in Stonehaven and has been going for over 100 years. Taking place on December 30, it’s believed that the flames burn off any evil spirits from the past year. As the piper leads the parade, others follow swinging balls of fire above their heads.
If 2022 hasn’t been the year for you, maybe this parade will ensure that 2023 is!
Biggar Bonfire Festival
The people of Biggar in South Lanarkshire enjoy welcoming the new year in with a huge bonfire. While the flames can be found on High Street, their glow can be seen from the surrounding areas. With fire being an important symbol in Scotland, this seems like the perfect way to start a new year.
Unique celebrations in Dufftown
Smaller towns typically celebrate Hogmanay in the same way but Dufftown is the expectation.
After the typical social gathering at a local hotel for music and entertainment, everyone makes their way to the Dufftown Square. Here, you’re given a complimentary glass of whiskey and a piece of shortbread. Then, together everyone raises a glass to the last day of the year.
Red Hot Highland Fling in Inverness
If your budget is a little tight this year, then you’ll want to make your way to Inverness for the Red Hot Highland Fling. Held at the Northern Meeting Park, this is the biggest free Hogmanay celebration in Scotland. The festival allows people to start the new year on a festive note, no matter their financial situation.
The festive season is unlike any other, especially when it comes to decorations. This means that you’ll need a safe and reliable place to store them during the year once January arrives. The good news is that you can find the perfect storage solution at Len's Self Storage, where storage units are available in a variety of sizes.
Being based in both Edinburgh and Glashow means that there are self storage units for everyone, so give us a call today!