What is Hogmanay?

New Year’s celebrations in Scotland are known as Hogmanay. The origin of the name is unknown, however, it is thought to be derived from the French word ‘hoginane,’ which means ‘gala day.’ Following Mary, Queen of Scots’ return to Scotland from France in 1561, it is supposed to have become commonly used.

The Hogmanay celebrations span three days and take place all over Scotland, starting at the end of December and concluding on the 2nd of January. Unlike the rest of the UK, Scotland has two days off after the celebrations, whereas the rest of the UK just has one on New Year’s Day.

How to celebrate Hogmanay this year

Concert in the Gardens

Saturday 31 December 2022 – Into The New Year

On Saturday, December 31, the Edinburgh Hogmanay Concert in the Gardens will feature pop icons Pet Shop Boys as the headliners.

The pair will perform a greatest-hits extravaganza for an international crowd assembled in Edinburgh to ring in the year 2023. Nine years after their 2013 performance at the sold-out event, Pet Shop Boys, widely regarded as the one of world’s most successful pop duo, make another appearance.

Some of the top live music performers in the world have performed at the Hogmanay Musical in the Gardens in Edinburgh, which features one of the most breathtaking concert venues beneath Edinburgh Castle. With the greatest view in the house, you can enjoy spectacular fireworks and world-class live music for an amazing New Year’s celebration.

In order to light up the night and bring everyone together for a memorable moment as we countdown to 2023, audience members will this year, for the first time ever, participate in the spectacle with your very own LED wristbands.

The Alan Crookston Ceilidh Band

Friday 30 December

Full-on Ceilidh Dancing is presented during the Festival of Ceilidhs’ “Countdown to Hogmanay” to the foot-tapping music of the Alan Crookston Ceilidh Band. The band has been given the task of creating a Ceilidh for aficionados that is intense, raucous, crazy, unrelenting, and FUN! There will be a bar and aim to be there at 8pm, dances are called as needed.

Sprogmanay’

Sunday 1 January

The National Museum of Scotland’s stunning surrounds will once again be the setting for “Sprogmanay,” a free afternoon of entertainment for kids on New Year’s Day. The programmes and activities are free and operate on a “First Come First Served” basis.

Lively pop-up performances and exciting musical activities for the entire family are to be expected.

The National Museum of Scotland is a beautiful location, and all of its galleries are currently brimming with interesting artefacts. Additionally, Sprogmanay offers a live music, comedy, magic, and arts & crafts programme.

First Footin’

Sunday 1 January 2023

First Footin’ delivers an afternoon of FREE live music and performance for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 2022 in various city centre attractions, pubs, and venues in both the Old & New Town regions.

In addition to enjoying the Hogmanay customs of friendship, food, and drink, audiences can explore the city and discover (or rediscover) some of Edinburgh’s incredible venues, landmark attractions, and independent pubs. Live music performances by a feast of Scottish artists will also be presented throughout the festivities.