Writing in the Edinburgh Evening News (9 January), Council Leader Jane Meagher reflects on the success of this year’s Hogmanay celebrations.
Year after year, Edinburgh proves why it belongs on the world stage. Hogmanay is more than a celebration. It is a clear statement of who we are: a confident, outward-looking city that welcomes the world, values culture and comes together to mark new beginnings. This year’s celebrations once again lived up to that promise, as tens of thousands of residents and visitors filled our streets to welcome 2026.
The Winter Festivals brought energy, creativity and shared experience to the heart of the city. They combined large-scale moments with a strong sense of place, reminding us that Edinburgh knows how to deliver events that feel both global and grounded. With 3 million people visiting the events on offer over the past 7 weeks, it’s another remarkable success.
From the Street Party along Princes Street to the Concert in the Gardens beneath the Castle and the free First Footin’, the programme offered something for everyone. Artists including Wet Leg, Hamish Hawk and Lucia & The Best Boys helped create an atmosphere that was vibrant, inclusive and unmistakably Edinburgh. These moments matter. They create memories, support our creative industries and reinforce our reputation for quality and ambition.
Hogmanay also plays a vital role in the city’s economy. It supports jobs, attracts visitors during the winter months and showcases Edinburgh as a city that delivers major events with care, professionalism and purpose. This is not just about celebration; it is about sustaining livelihoods and strengthening confidence in our city.
What stood out most to me was the spirit of togetherness. People celebrated responsibly, looked out for one another and helped create a safe and welcoming environment for all. That does not happen by chance. I want to thank Unique Assembly who deliver the Winter Festivals on behalf of the Council, our emergency services, council teams, stewards, volunteers and partners who worked tirelessly behind the scenes and Edinburgh Trams for providing free tram rides to make sure everyone got home safely. Their commitment, professionalism and teamwork made the celebrations possible and ensured the city remained safe and welcoming throughout.
As we move into 2026, we must build on this momentum. Our focus should be on strengthening what works well and continuing to raise the standard of what we deliver for residents and visitors alike.
The introduction of the Visitor Levy presents a significant opportunity to do just that. With the potential to generate up to £50 million a year, it gives us the means to invest directly in the things that make Edinburgh a great place to live and visit. That investment must support tourism in a way that is sustainable, balanced and rooted in the needs of the city.
Edinburgh’s Winter Festivals are central to that offer. Investing in them is not simply about events. It is about supporting jobs, nurturing talent, strengthening our cultural identity and ensuring the benefits of tourism are felt across communities.
Looking ahead, Hogmanay must continue to evolve in a way that reflects Edinburgh’s values: inclusive, responsible and rooted in community. By staying true to those principles, we can ensure Hogmanay continues to serve the city, its people and its future.