Everything you need to know for Scotland’s biggest New Year celebration If you’re planning to spendHogmanay in Edinburgh this year, you’re about to experience one of the most spectacular New Year celebrations in the world. From the fireworks over Edinburgh Castle to the live music, street party atmosphere and biting Scottish winter cold, it’s a night you’ll never forget!
If you want even more UK guides afterwards, explore the rest of my UK Travel category.
Who’s playing at Hogmanay this year?
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party 2025: Official Highlights
If you’re heading to Hogmanay this year, here’s the excellent news: the world-famous Hogmanay Street Party is officially returning to the city centre, and it is set to be one of the biggest celebrations yet.
On December 31, 2025, at 20:00, Prince’s Street will transform into a massive festival space, welcoming 45,000 revellers from around the world to celebrate beneath the glow of Edinburgh Castle. It’s one of the greatest New Year events on the planet – loud, joyful, beautifully chaotic, and completely unforgettable.
This year’s Hogmanay Street Party promises an unforgettable night, featuring live music, top DJs, giant video screens, international street theatre performances, pipers and drummers, funfair attractions, and plenty of street food and drink options. Plus, Titanium the world-renowned pyrotechnic team — is back to light up the skies with their legendary firework displays. Whether you’re dancing in the Party Zone, soaking up the atmosphere in the Tartan Zone, or bouncing between stages, the energy will be absolutely electric.
2025 Lineup Highlights
Party Zone
• 2manydjs + special guest
• Hayley Zalassi
Tartan Zone
• Valtos
• The Poozies
• Bella McNab’s Dance Band
Silent Disco Zone
• Hosted by Silent Adventures
• (Silent Disco Upgrade available) – Amazing, right?!
The combination of live music, ceilidh-style sets, modern DJs, and the massive fireworks display at midnight makes this one of the most iconic places on earth to welcome the new year.
Event Essentials
• Date: 31 December 2025
• Time: 20:00 (Duration ~285 mins)
• Location: Princes Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2AN.
• Age restriction: 12+
• Tickets from: £33.00
• Official booking: edinburghshogmanay.com, Ticketmaster, Tickets Scotland
Important: The organisers have confirmed there is no official resale. Avoid Eventbrite and any secondary ticket sites — those tickets are not valid.
Even if you don’t recognise every artist, the atmosphere is unbeatable. The castle becomes a dramatic concert backdrop, and the energy of the crowd carries you through the cold.
Tips for enjoying the lineup:
• Arrive early if you want to be near the main stage
• Pick one stage and commit; moving between crowds is slow
• Midnight is magic don’t film the whole thing; just enjoy it
What to expect at the Hogmanay Street Party
The street party is huge, loud, friendly, and brilliantly organised.
It feels like:
• A festival
• A concert
• A global gathering
• A freezing-but-warm-hearted atmosphere
• Total joy, even in the queues
Security is tight but friendly, entry is controlled, and the entire area around Princes Street transforms into a buzzing outdoor event.
What to wear to Hogmanay (the truth)
One of the most Googled questions about Hogmanay is what to wear and for good reason. You’ll be outside for hours, so dressing warmly is essential. Layer up with thermal base layers, a warm jumper, and a waterproof, windproof coat. Don’t forget gloves, a scarf, and a hat to keep the chill at bay. Waterproof boots (definitely no heels) and thermal socks are a must, and be sure to bring only a small crossbody bag, as large bags aren’t allowed. You’ll thank yourself for every single layer,promise!
If you want more winter outfit inspiration, explore my Fashion category.
What to bring (and what not to)
Before heading out to Hogmanay, make sure you bring your tickets, ID, a portable charger, some snacks, both cash and a card, a reusable cup, and definitely lip balm; windburn is no joke! However, leave your umbrella at home, as they’ll be confiscated. Also avoid bringing large bags, glass bottles, or anything you wouldn’t want to get bumped, dropped, or lost in the crowd.
Travel tips for Hogmanay: avoid these common mistakes
1. Book accommodation early
Edinburgh sells out months in advance.
If you find anything near Princes Street or Old Town, book it.
2. Don’t rely on taxis
After midnight, taxis disappear.
Walk or use trams.
3. Plan your exit route
Princes Street becomes a moving river of people.
Know where you’re heading.
4. Stay for New Year’s Day
Edinburgh on 1 January is peaceful and beautiful with brunch, coffee, and quiet streets.
5. Arrive early to avoid queue stress
Security queues move well, but the later you arrive, the longer you wait.
Where to stay in Edinburgh for Hogmanay
Best areas:
• Princes Street / New Town – most convenient
• Old Town – atmospheric and historic.
• Haymarket has great transport links.
• Leith – trendy and slightly cheaper.
Budget options go quickly; hostels, guesthouses, and even basic rooms sell out.
My favourite Hogmanay moments.
The moment when the fireworks erupt above Edinburgh Castle is indescribable.
The entire crowd sings Auld Lang Syne, linking arms with strangers, laughing, and fully embracing the chaos.
It’s emotional. It’s cold. It’s completely unforgettable.
Final Tips for the Best Hogmanay Ever
For the best Hogmanay experience, try not to overplan some of the magic comes from going with the flow. Make sure you eat before you arrive, as queues and crowds can make food stops a challenge. Keep your phone tucked inside your coat to stop it from freezing, and agree on a “lost friend” meeting point just in case the crowd swallows someone up. Most importantly, soak it all in enjoy the music, the atmosphere, and the moment itself, rather than watching the night through your screen.
What to Book Now for Hogmanay 2025
Hogmanay in Edinburgh isn’t just a New Year’s Eve party; it’s a full-blown experience. The music, the atmosphere, the fireworks, the crowds, the cold, the laughter, the strangers who feel like friends for one night only… it all comes together to create something unforgettable. With the right layers, a little planning, and an open mind, you’ll have a night you’ll talk about for years. If you’re heading to Edinburgh this year, prepare for magic, mayhem and a New Year’s celebration unlike anywhere else in the world. I have done it 3 years and LOVE TI!
