Celebrate New Year at Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party
As the year draws to a close, few celebrations match the energy and atmosphere of the Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party. Set in Scotland’s historic capital, this world-famous New Year’s Eve event transforms the city centre into a vibrant open-air festival. Tens of thousands of revellers gather to enjoy live music, street performances, and a spectacular fireworks display. More than just a party, Hogmanay combines modern entertainment with centuries-old Scottish traditions, making it one of the most unforgettable ways to welcome the New Year.
What Is Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party?
Held annually on 31 December, Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party takes over central streets like Princes Street and George Street, creating a festival-style atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. The event features multiple themed zones, including live DJs, traditional Scottish performers, street theatre, and immersive entertainment. As midnight approaches, a breathtaking fireworks display lights up the skyline, providing a perfect finale to the evening.
Entertainment Zones & Highlights You Shouldn’t Miss
One of the biggest draws of Edinburgh's Hogmanay street party is its carefully curated entertainment zones, each offering a distinct atmosphere and style of celebration. These areas are clearly laid out in the official arena map, making it easier to plan where to go depending on the music, crowd level, and overall vibe you’re looking for. Whether you’re into high-energy dance music or traditional Scottish sounds, there’s something for everyone.
Party Zone
This is the heart of the action, featuring headline DJs, live electronic acts, and giant screens that keep the crowd buzzing all night. Expect a high-energy atmosphere as thousands dance their way towards midnight, with Edinburgh Castle providing a dramatic backdrop overhead.
Tartan Zone
For a more authentic Scottish experience, the Tartan Zone showcases folk bands, pipers, drummers, and ceilidh-style performances. It’s the perfect place to enjoy live traditional music, soak up local culture, and celebrate Hogmanay in a distinctly Scottish way. Families will also find it ideal for days out with the kids, as the lively yet friendly atmosphere makes it easy to introduce younger visitors to Scottish music and traditions.
Silent Disco Zone
Looking for something a little different? The Silent Disco Zone lets you choose your soundtrack through wireless headphones while dancing alongside hundreds of others. It’s a fun, immersive experience and a great option if you want to dip in and out of the crowds.
Midnight Fireworks Finale
No Hogmanay celebration would be complete without the fireworks. As the clock strikes twelve, a spectacular pyrotechnic display lights up the Edinburgh skyline, creating a breathtaking moment that brings the entire street party together to welcome the New Year in unforgettable style.
Tickets, Entry Gates & Practical Event Info
To enjoy the Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party smoothly, it’s essential to plan your tickets and arrival in advance. This is a ticketed event with strict entry rules designed to manage large crowds safely.
Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party are sold exclusively as paperless e-tickets via the official booking page. Purchasing through authorised channels is essential, as tickets from resale platforms or social media may not be valid for entry.
Ticket types and prices: Standard adult tickets are typically priced at around £33 plus a booking fee. Residents with an EH postcode can usually access a discounted rate of approximately £26 plus a booking fee. Tickets are linked to specific entry gates, including East, South and West.
Booking conditions: To manage crowd numbers, there is normally a limit on how many tickets can be purchased per order or per card. Booking fees may also include a small charity contribution.
What the ticket includes: A Street Party ticket provides access only to the Street Party area. Other Hogmanay events, such as the Concert in the Gardens, require separate tickets.
At night, tickets are scanned at the entrance using a QR code. All tickets within the same order are validated together, so groups must arrive at the same time. Re-entry is not permitted once you leave the event area, and the last entry is usually at 11:00 pm, making an earlier arrival the safest option. Saving your QR code to your phone in advance is recommended, as mobile signal can be limited near the venue.
Entrance Gates
There are three designated entry gates, chosen at the time of purchase and not changeable later:
East Gate: Princes Street East End, near the Balmoral Hotel
West Gate: Princes Street, West End, near Johnnie Walker
South Gate: Bank Street / Top of The Mound
Choosing the gate closest to your accommodation or transport route will make entry much easier on the night.
Age Limits & Bags
Children under 12 are not permitted, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Bags larger than A3 size are not allowed, and security checks are in place at all entrances. Drones and glass containers are strictly prohibited.
Weather, Safety & Accessibility
The street party is an all-standing outdoor event held in winter, so warm, weather-appropriate clothing is essential. Umbrellas are not allowed for safety reasons. An accessible viewing area is available, with a dedicated entrance and accessible toilets nearby, though spaces are limited and must be arranged in advance.
With a little preparation—tickets ready, gate selected, and arrival planned—you can focus on enjoying the music, atmosphere, and unforgettable New Year celebrations in the heart of Edinburgh.
Tips for Enjoying the Street Party on a Cold Winter Night
Dress for Long Hours Outdoors in Winter Conditions
Celebrating New Year at the Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party means hours outdoors in winter conditions, so a little practical preparation can make all the difference. Wearing warm, layered clothing and waterproof footwear will keep you comfortable while navigating the bustling streets and enjoying the festivities.
Plan Power Access for Phones and Essential Devices
Another often overlooked issue is power access. With limited charging points and dense crowds, keeping phones, cameras, and navigation apps running becomes a real challenge, especially if you are documenting the night or staying out until after midnight. In these situations, a portable power station can be a practical shared backup rather than something you carry continuously on your person.
For small groups gathering at a fixed meeting spot, nearby accommodation, or a parked vehicle on the edge of the city, a higher-capacity option like the EcoFlow DELTA 3 Max Plus Portable Power Station (2048Wh) offers reliable support. With a 3000W AC output (6000W surge), multiple USB and AC ports, and expandable capacity up to 10 kWh, it can comfortably handle phones, cameras, power banks, and even small heating accessories throughout the night, making it suitable when several people need to top up devices over many hours.
EcoFlow DELTA 3 Max Plus Portable Power Station (2048Wh)
If mobility is the priority, a more compact setup such as the EcoFlow DELTA 3 Plus Portable Power Station + DELTA 3 Smart Extra Battery strikes a better balance. Delivering 1800W AC output (up to 3600W surge via X-Boost) and supporting fast recharging through AC, solar, or car input, it is easier to move between locations while still providing dependable power for essential devices during the celebration.
EcoFlow DELTA 3 Plus Portable Power Station + DELTA 3 Smart Extra Battery
Crowd Movement and Meeting Point Planning
The street party and associated events—including the fireworks over Edinburgh Castle at midnight—draw tens of thousands of attendees, and crowd movement can be slow and congested as you move between zones or try to secure a good viewpoint. Plan your movements well in advance, set specific meeting points with your group outside the main party area in case you get separated, and be mindful that cell signal may be limited due to network congestion in the city centre. Download your tickets and any essential maps or transport timetables before you arrive to avoid last-minute issues.
Manage Food, Drinks and Warmth During the Night
Food and drink play a significant role in keeping you comfortable through the night, especially when temperatures hover near freezing. While there are outdoor bars and food vendors inside the street party area, these can become crowded and have long queues around peak times, so consider having a substantial meal before you arrive or bringing compact snacks such as energy bars or nuts to maintain your energy levels. Bringing a thermos with a hot beverage—whether tea, coffee or another warm drink—is a simple way to stay warm between performances and crowds, and is allowed in appropriate containers (no glass).
Be Weather Ready and Check Local Transport Options
Finally, don’t underestimate how unpredictable Scottish winter weather can be on Hogmanay. Even if forecasts look calm, it’s common for strong winds, rain or a sudden temperature drop to affect the city centre on New Year’s Eve, potentially making conditions harsher than expected. Having waterproof outer layers, windproof gloves, and a plan to check local weather updates or seek temporary shelter if conditions worsen will help you stay comfortable and safe throughout the night. Be prepared for all kinds of weather, and don’t worry about getting back—night buses and trams usually keep running after the party, so you can head home safely when the celebrations wind down.
Conclusion
As the clock ticks closer to midnight, the Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party offers an unforgettable way to welcome the New Year. With a vibrant mix of music, fireworks, and street performances set against the iconic cityscape, it’s an experience that captures the spirit of Scotland like no other. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned reveller, planning ahead and preparing for the winter conditions ensures you can fully enjoy every moment of this world-renowned celebration.
FAQs
Do you need tickets for the Edinburgh Street Party?
Yes, tickets are required to attend the Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party. The event is highly popular, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year, so having a valid ticket is essential for entry. Tickets are paperless e-tickets containing a QR code that must be scanned at your chosen entrance gate. Attendees should arrive with their entire party, as each ticket is validated upon entry. Make sure to download your e-ticket to a digital device or add it to Google/Apple Wallet for easy access, as internet service may be limited at the event.
What happens at the Edinburgh Street Party?
The Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party is a world-famous New Year celebration featuring live music, DJs, international street theatre, pipers, drummers, and immersive entertainment zones. Attendees can enjoy giant screens broadcasting performances, funfair attractions, and street food stalls. As midnight approaches, the spectacular fireworks display designed by Titanium lights up the Edinburgh skies against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. The party includes multiple zones like the Party Zone, Tartan Zone, and Silent Disco Zone, offering something for everyone, from families to music lovers. It’s an energetic, multi-sensory experience that makes welcoming the New Year unforgettable.
Is Hogmanay in Edinburgh worth it?
Absolutely. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations are renowned worldwide for their scale, atmosphere, and unique Scottish flair. The street party, live performances, torchlight processions, and spectacular fireworks make it one of the most memorable New Year's events globally. Beyond the street party, the city offers cultural experiences, historic surroundings, and beautiful winter scenery. It’s ideal for first-time visitors seeking a lively celebration or returning guests looking for a festive tradition. While it can be busy, careful planning with tickets, entry gates, and winter preparation ensures a safe and thrilling experience, making Hogmanay in Edinburgh truly worth attending.