New Year's Eve: Edinburgh Hogmanay 2026

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By Scarlett Welch Editor, DesignMyNight Scarlett has covered the UK's best restaurants, bars and events for DesignMyNight since 2023. She holds an MA in Media & Journalism, with bylines in The Crack magazine and South London News, among others. Last updated on 20th August 2026

The 31st of December is right around the corner and we just can't wait to ring in the new year with our nearest and dearest. And if you're wondering whre to spend it? Check out our guide to the best Edinburgh Hogmanay events for 2026.

Bars, restaurants and clubs all over the city are throwing open their doors, hosting a load of epic events to celebrate in fabulous style. There's something for everyone here, whether you like glitter, getting dressed up, or something a little different to see in 2027.

Find out more about how we curated this guide in our Editorial Policy.

Best New Year's Eve Events In Edinburgh 2026




Old Skool BINGO New Years Eve Edinburgh

@ Coco Boho on Thu, 31st Dec 2026 @ 20:00 - 22:30

  • Location: 125B, George Street, EH2 4JN
  • Price: from £18.55 per person (depending on group size) 
  • Why we recommend: think you'll find a crazier NYE event in Edinburgh? We're not so sure. Not only are you likely to walk away with an amazing prize, but also some potentially sore feet and a hoarse voice from singing for 2+ hours straight – always the signs of a good night

Can't stand to have another failed NYE? Grabbing a ticket to this event is pretty much a one-way ticket to guaranteed fun, and here's why: Old Skool Bingo are shaking things up in Edinburgh by bringing the UK's biggest RnB bingo experience to the centre of the city. The hilarious MC will have insane prizes in tow and a whole lot of surprises up his sleeve, including an impromptu dance competition and a bunch of mini challenges to get the crowd going. 

The DJ will be spinning non-stop tunes, throwing it all the way back to the 90s before bringing it back to the more recent club classics we all know and love. Anything goes (within reason), so don't be afraid to belt out song lyrics, show your moves and do what it takes to win that coveted top prize.

The Alchemist Edinburgh - St James Quarter

  • Location: 414 St James Quarter, EH1 3AE
  • Price: free entry
  • Why we recommend: this is an affordable but stylish choice for New Year's Eve drinks and dining, and their theatrical cocktails are some of our favourites - they're very Instagrammable too

Looking for a swish spot to celebrate the 31st of December? With sites on George Street and St James Quarter, The Alchemist is hosting dining and drinks, where you'll be treated to a fantastic selection of delicious eats accompanied by a curious collection of creative cocktails that are sure to dazzle and amaze.

Alongside your colourful, bubbling concoctions, there's an international menu to get stuck into. Expect everything from lobster mac 'n' cheese to coconut tofu curry and rib eye steak with fries, followed by a miso caramel chocolate brownie.

The Botanist, Edinburgh

£8.95 Lunch Menu and 1 other offer

Head down to The Botanist in St James Quarter for a New Year's Eve to remember, soundtracked by their live house band. Tickets cost just £15 per person, including a welcome cocktail and a glass of fizz at midnight.

For an extra £35 per head, you can also enjoy a sumptuous three-course meal. We're talking pan-fried sea bass, hanging tofu kebabs, sirloin steak and so much more.

Slug and lettuce, Edinburgh, George Street

🎄 £5 Off Festive Brunch 🎄 and 3 other offers

  • Location: New Town or the Omni Centre
  • Price: £5.50
  • Why we recommend: affordable yet fun, Slug and Lettuce offer a New Year's Eve countdown event complete with a free glass of prosecco on arrival - a bargain for the ticket price

Ring in the New Year at Slug and Lettuce with an evening of glitz, glamour and non-stop celebration, complete with stylish décor and an electric party atmosphere. Enjoy a complimentary glass of fizz on arrival, dress to impress in sequins and sparkle, and dance the night away as the countdown begins.

Tickets start from just £5.50, making this glittering experience an affordable way to welcome 2026 in unforgettable style. As well as the New Town location, check out the Omni Centre too.

New Year's Eve at Lady Libertine

  • Location: 25 West Register Street, EH2 2AA
  • Price: £75 for a six-course meal and entertainment
  • Why we recommend: if you're looking to indulge this New Year's Eve, you can't go wrong with a sumptuous six-course feast at Lady Libertine, and we always love their live entertainment too

A sophisticated, two-floor venue in the New Town, Lady Libertine is a top choice for Hogmanay dining. The sleek, dark interiors feature exposed beams and brick walls, alongside marble tables and comfy booths to cosy up in.

This New Year's Eve, they're offering two seatings at 5pm and 8pm. For £75 per person, you'll receive six courses and Champagne - think dry-aged beef fillet, tempura cod with pea puree, beetroot carpaccio and more. Plus, there'll be live entertainment on the night.

New Year's Eve at All Bar One Exchange Edinburgh

Graduation Sharing Plates and 5 other offers

  • Location: Clydesdale Bank Plaza, EH3 9BY
  • Price: varies
  • Why we recommend: this place serves some of our favourite cocktails, and their small plates selection is great for a sharing meal to kick off Hogmanay

All Bar One is always a top choice for affordable food and drink, whipping up some of the best cocktails around. Expect a vibrant atmosphere and laid-back interiors, with a menu that ranges from beef brisket tacos to garlic and chilli prawns or haggis bon bons.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hogmanay and why is it celebrated in Edinburgh?

Hogmanay is the Scottish word for New Year's Eve and is considered one of Scotland's most important holidays — historically even more significant than Christmas, which was banned in Scotland for around 400 years. Edinburgh's official Hogmanay festival dates back to 1993 and has grown into one of the world's greatest outdoor New Year's Eve celebrations, drawing an estimated 100,000 visitors from dozens of countries each year.

What are the best things to do for New Year's Eve in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh's Hogmanay is a multi-day festival with something for everyone. Highlights include the Torchlight Procession (typically 29–30 December), the Street Party along Princes Street with live music and DJ sets, the Concert in the Gardens with a headline act, and the spectacular midnight fireworks over Edinburgh Castle. For a more intimate night, venues like The Three Sisters offer a full day of celebrations, while All Bar One is a popular choice for cocktails and sharing plates. For a luxury experience, Lady Libertine offers a six-course Hogmanay dinner with Champagne.

Can you watch the Edinburgh Hogmanay fireworks for free?

Yes — if you don't have a Street Party ticket, you can still see the midnight fireworks display over Edinburgh Castle from several free vantage points around the city. Popular spots include Calton Hill, North Bridge, and the corner of Castle Street and George Street. Arrive early to secure a good position, as these spots fill up quickly. Some hotel rooftop bars and terraces also offer views — the Apex Grassmarket Hotel's Heights suite, for example, is a ticketed option with a direct view of the Castle fireworks.

Is Edinburgh Hogmanay suitable for families and children?

Yes — while many of the headline events are 18+, there are family-friendly options during the Hogmanay festival period. The Torchlight Procession is generally open to all ages, and some venues host early ceilidhs specifically for families. Always check individual event age restrictions before booking.

What is First-Footing and does it happen at Edinburgh Hogmanay?

First-Footing is a traditional Scottish New Year custom where the first person to cross your threshold after midnight brings gifts — typically whisky and coal — to bring good luck for the year ahead. While it's primarily a private tradition celebrated in homes across Scotland, the spirit of it is very much alive during Edinburgh's Hogmanay street celebrations, where strangers join hands to sing Auld Lang Syne at midnight and the sense of community is central to the experience.