Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations cancelled due to extreme weather
Edinburgh‘s annual Hogmanay celebrations, including an outdoor concert by Scottish group Texas, have been cancelled due to extreme weather.
Texas were due to headline the Hogmanay concert in Princes Street Gardens on December 31st, which will no longer be going ahead because of safety concerns. However, all indoor events, such as a concert by Idlewild at the Assembly Rooms, are still set to take place.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the festival explained: “Due to ongoing high winds and inclement weather in Edinburgh city centre, we regret to announce that outdoor events scheduled for tonight and December 31 are unable to go ahead on the grounds of public safety.”
They continued: “The cancellation includes tonight’s night afore disco party in West Princes Street Gardens, and on the 31st December, the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay street party, concert in the gardens and the midnight fireworks from Edinburgh Castle. We have unfortunately been unable to continue with preparations and necessary set-up for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay outdoor events due to extreme weather and forecast conditions. Therefore, for safety reasons we, along with our event partners, have taken the difficult decision to cancel all outdoor events.”
The festival’s spokesperson acknowledged that “people travel from around the world” to celebrate Hogmanay in Edinburgh and described the cancellation as “hugely disappointing.” Ticketholders have been instructed to contact their point of purchase for a refund.
City of Edinburgh Council leader Jane Meagher added: “I know that, like me, many people will be very disappointed. This decision was not taken lightly, however with the ongoing adverse weather condition, public safety must be our number one priority. Please make sure you stay up-to-date with the weather and transport on social media.”
The New Year’s Day celebrations are still set to go ahead as planned. Hogmanay was previously cancelled in 2003 and 2006 due to similar extreme weather.
Never Miss A Beat
The Far Out Music Newsletter
All the latest music news from the independent voice of culture.
Straight to your inbox.