Hogmanay

The word 'Hogmanay' has now become synonymous with Edinburgh's international New Year party held every year in the centre of the capital city.  The history of the word itself is so old that it has been lost completely with some thinking it might be Gaelic or even Old French or Flemish.

Whatever the origin of the word, it stands for everything to do with the Scots own unique way of celebrating the coming of the New Year, bringing together the modern day with adaptations of ancient customs.

In many homes to this day the tradition of 'first-footing' is an important part of the New Year. In order to bring good luck for the year ahead the person who first enters the house after the bells have rung at midnight should be tall and dark and carry a lump of coal, some shortbread or whisky.

Most towns and cities around Scotland see Scots taking to the streets to greet their neighbours, watch fireworks and bring in the New Year with a good old party. This idea has been taken to the extreme in Scotland's capital city with the creation of a four-day festival dedicated to Hogmanay.

Here is a sample of the events usually on offer in Edinburgh for Hogmanay:

Torchlight Procession

Start your New Year celebrations by carrying a torch for charity in the firelit procession and enjoy the fireworks which round of the event.

Night Afore International

A Carnival atmosphere in this Scottish Catalonian themed evening of street theatre, music and dancing.

Royal Bank Street Party

Join 100,000 people for live music and a great party atmosphere on the night itself. Entry only with a Royal Bank Street Party pass.

Concert in the Gardens

See top international artists bring in the New Year with a song in Princes Street Gardens.

Seven Hills Fireworks

Watch one of the world's premier firework displays go off from seven locations around the city.

The New Year Revels

Dance the night away with a mix of traditional Ceilidh music and DJs.

Find more information and ticket details on all these events at: www.edinburghshogmanay.org

For more information on the many other Hogmanay events around Scotland:www.hogmanay.net/hogmanay.htm