What to do in Edinburgh on New Year's Day

22 September 2023|Read time 1 mins

If you're in Edinburgh over Hogmanay and the New Year, don't worry, the party doesn't end on 31st December 2024.

The city's New Year programme of 2024/5 has a schedule of events to keep us all entertained well beyond Hogmanay itself and into the first few days of New Year.

New Year's Day in Edinburgh 2025

Whether you are looking to continue the celebrations or have a memorable start to the New Year, Edinburgh has something for you!

Loony Dook 2025, Edinburgh

Taking a dip ('dook') could be just the thing if you're feeling a little, shall we say, dehydrated from the previous evening, and might be one way to cure a hangover.

On 1st January 2025, there will be a group of brave souls taking part in the 'Loony Dook' across Scotland, the annual splash.

Now firmly a staple of the New Year celebrations, the event which has been going on for 30 years, sees willing participants plunging themselves into the freezing Firth of Forth in places such as South Queensferry and Portobello.

There are always plenty of pubs, cafes and restaurants open on New Year's Day and swimmers are encouraged to return to a local pub after their dip for a well-earned hot soup and a toddy.

Other activities on Edinburgh New Year's Day 2025

If you don't fancy plunging into icy water on its way to the North Sea, you can enjoy some other festivities which will be going on at different venues across the city.

None of them involves immersion in sub-zero waves!

While the majority of shops will be closed on New Year's Day, there will be cafes and restaurants open for you to enjoy a bite to eat and cure that hangover after the Edinburgh Hogmanay celebrations!

Get outdoors on New Year's Day in Edinburgh

While outdoor attractions such as the Royal Botanic Garden will be closed on New Year's Day, there are plenty of free, outdoor spaces to enjoy.

Head down to the Firth of Forth and, if you're not doing the Loony Dook, take a walk or cycle along the coastline path. 

You are sure to bump into lots of friendly people and dogs along the way!

Alternatively, for something closer to the city centre, head to Calton Hill and enjoy the views which stretch as far as Fife. 

Explore the National Monument, which commemorates soldiers who died in the Napoleonic Wars and whose design is based on a Greek temple.

If you're feeling very energetic on New Year's Day, take a hike up Arthur's Seat in Holyrood Park, an ancient volcano which also offers spectacular views of the city of Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Christmas markets in 2024/5

If you’re not ready to let go of the Christmas festivities quite yet then you could always pay a visit to Edinburgh’s Christmas markets which are open right up until early January.

With venues across more than one site, you can visit the markets and enjoy the very best in festive food and drink if that’s what you’re craving. For the smaller members of the family, there are carnival rides if the kids need to let off some steam.

Book to visit Edinburgh at New Year

Don't forget to book your New Year city break to Edinburgh with Reserve Apartments.

Edinburgh is waiting for you this new year, with plenty of fantastic events and attractions to enjoy!