The numbers for Edinburgh’s Christmas and Hogmanay have been so hit that early bird tickets for this year’s event in 12 months time are now on sale – at 2025 prices.
Three million visitors came to Edinburgh during the seven week long Winter Festival bringing income to hospitality related businesses in the city.
More than 300,000 people enjoyed the views from the LNER Big Wheel and the Starflyer, with the screams of enjoyment heard all over the city centre. In the Christmas Market more than 71 artisan Scottish traders included 53 from Edinburgh. The events at the Ross Bandstand attracted 27,500 people in the audience and, as previously announced, there were 8,500 free tickets given away to charities, community groups and schools.
During the four day long Hogmanay event more than 115,000 people from 138 countries attended, with the Street Party and other events declared a sell-out.
On New Year’s Day at the free First Footin’ events and Sprogmaany, more than 40 acts performed at 18 venues.
Early-bird tickets on sale now via www.edinburghshogmanay.com
The coverage from CNN International who broadcast live from Princes Street reached more than 600 million viewers, while coverage by 130 international media outlets are believed to have reached four billion viewers, taking the scene in Edinburgh worldwide.
Unique Assembly Directors, who produce Edinburgh’s Winter Festivals said: “These festivals are born of Edinburgh and are very much by and for the city and its people, and this winter we were once again absolutely blown away by the scale of the response as we welcomed everyone from local families, to hundreds of Scottish musicians and tens of thousands of visitors joining us from every corner of the globe. Off the back of a hugely successful event, we’re already experiencing a strong demand from those looking to join the festival celebrations next winter, so we hope that releasing a limited number of early-bird tickets gives audiences the chance to plan ahead and be part of what promises to be another unforgettable Edinburgh’s Hogmanay.”
Council Leader Jane Meagher said: “Edinburgh’s Hogmanay once again showed the city at its best, bringing residents and visitors together to welcome 2026. Tens of thousands took part safely and responsibly, reinforcing Edinburgh’s reputation for delivering major events with professionalism and care.
“Across the Winter Festivals, from the Street Party to the free First Footin’ events, millions of visits over seven weeks highlighted the scale and quality of what the city can deliver. These events support jobs, showcase our creative talent and play an important role in the winter economy.
“I want to thank Unique Assembly who deliver the Winter Festivals on behalf of the Council, our emergency services, council teams, Lothian Buses, stewards, volunteers and partners who worked tirelessly behind the scenes and Edinburgh Trams for providing free tram rides.
“With that momentum in mind, our focus is on building on what works well and continuing to deliver events that reflect Edinburgh’s values and benefit the city and its communities.”
The two winter events have a combined economic benefit of £200 million and are run by Unique Assembly on behalf of The City of Edinburgh Council who are now contracted by the local authority until 2028.
