In Scotland, we love nothing more than bringing in the bells of a new year with one heck of a party. Known for its celebrations worldwide, Edinburgh brings the city to life with its annual Hogmanay Street Party and Concert.
This does mean that from 30th December – 1st January there will be temporary road closures in Edinburgh city centre for the festive celebrations. Not worry though, we've put together a handy guide to help you get around during this time.
Torchlight Procession
On 30th December 2019, thousands of people will join the parade of pipers, drums and torch carriers as they march down the Royal Mile to Holyrood Park to view the stunning Torchlight Procession fireworks. Seeing thousands of torches illuminate the city is a beautiful sight to witness.
When does it take place?
This year's Torchlight Procession takes place at 7pm on 30th December and runs until 9pm.
Road Closures on 30th December
The following roads will be closed from 00:01 for 24 hours: High Street from South Bridge to Blackfriars Street.
The following roads will be closed from 10am to 10pm: Lawnmarket from Bank Street to the High Street, Parliament Square and from Lawnmarket to Cockburn Street.
The following roads will be closed from 4pm to 10pm: Cockburn Street, North Bridge, Royal Mile, South Bridge, Hunter Square, Blair Street, Niddry Street and Blackfriars Street.
The following roads will be closed from 6pm to 10.30pm: Jeffrey Street, St Mary's Street, Cranston Street, New Street (partial), Canongate, Old Tollbooth Wynd (partial), Abbeyhill (partial), Calton Road, Abbeyhill Crescent (partial), Brand Place, Horse Wynd, Queen's Drive, Abbey Strand, Holyrood Park Road (partial), Duke's Walk, Holyrood Gait (partial).
Top Travel Tip
To get to Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, walk up via the Mound and take Ramsay Lane.
Hogmanay Celebrations
Street Party and Concert in the Gardens
Live music awakens the city centre as it comes alive with festivities. People from all over the globe come together in Edinburgh to bring in 2020 in style. Take part in the world’s biggest street party, see Mark Ronson perform in gardens, or dance the night away at Ceilidh Under the Castle. More information and tickets can be found here https://www.edinburghshogmanay.com/
When does it take place?
This year's Hogmanay Street Party will be kicking off at 7.30pm on 31st December, and of course, the celebrations can go on until the wee hours of the morning on 1st January.
Road Closures
There will be several phased road closures across the city centre in preparation for the events. For further detailed information about all of the road closures across the New Year celebrations, please head over to the Edinburgh Council website:
http://edinburgh.cdmf.info/public/disruptions/list.htm;jsessionid=92C309E2C869FA47335647B51F3BD3FB
Top Travel Tip
To get to Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, walk up via Victoria Terrace then take Upper Bow to get to Castlehill.
Open Hours and More Information
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is open every day over the New Year period. If you are planning on visiting us, please leave plenty of time to get here and expect some distributions to transport.
- New Year's Eve: 9am - 9pm
- New Year's Day: 10am - 9pm
- 2nd January: 9am - 9pm
Our team are always happy to help, do get in touch if you have any questions.