Line up for Hogmanay announced

With the opening of the Christmas market and the Hogmanay line up announced, this year looks set to be the best yet for Edinburgh. 

The annual Christmas Market and a four day Hogmanay festival will create a combination of old favourites and new enticements. Edinburgh officials hopes it will bring revellers from across the world to Scotland’s capital to celebrate the season and the ringing of the bells.

Light night and the opening of the world famous German Christmas Market on 25 November marks the beginning of the festive period.

Edinburgh is recognised worldwide as a top destination for Christmas with Cadbury and Nintendo investing in the yule tide cheer, setting up new attractions in the city.

Edinburgh's Lord Provost George Grubb, said: "Edinburgh at Christmas continues to be an enormous draw for visitors and residents alike, and research shows that it ranks high on the list of top places to celebrate the season.

"The city comes alive in a very special way and gives everyone the opportunity to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas as well as enjoying a great programme of events and attractions."

The Council have cut funding to the Hogmanay Festival this year but wants to prove that it will not compromise festive celebration in the city. A new stage is to be set up in the East End of Edinburgh, with Goldie Lookin’ Chain headlining, proving the old adage ‘money doesn’t make a festival, rappers do.’

Pete Irvine, director of Edinburgh's Hogmanay, said: “We're delighted to announce an action-packed programme studded with artists of international acclaim and integrity. Let's forget about the darkness and the doldrums and enjoy the best New Year celebration in the world.”

The Festival will continue on into the New Year with the One Day concert on New Year’s Day in Princes Street Gardens. Headlined by KT Tunstall, the seven-hour event is designed to entertain the thousands of visitors to the city into the new year. 

The Hogmanay line-up is always a selection of the finest home-grown talent, this year is no exception. Biffy Clyro, The Charlatans, Kaiser Chiefs and special guest Billy Bragg will keep everyone entertained in anticipation of the midnight fireworks display and the world’s largest Auld Lang Syne.

Steve Cardownie, Edinburgh City Council's festival and events champion, said: “When people think of Hogmanay, they think of Edinburgh. Quite simply, nowhere does it better.”