• Council seeks producers for Edinburgh’s Christmas and Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, with tender documents published • Contract term for initial period of three years
Contract notices for both Edinburgh’s Christmas and Hogmanay festivals from 2022-2025 have been published on the Public Contracts Scotland website.
The specifications were devised in response to the findings of a major independent survey into the future of Edinburgh’s Winter Festivals conducted last year.
Overall, results of the 12-week consultation showed a wish to continue to provide high quality Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations but that they must be valued by residents and visitors.
The tender responses will be used to draw up a shortlist for further consideration, with the Council hoping to have a producing partner in place by the summer.
For both events and in line with the consultation responses received, the council is seeking a producer to:
Continue to provide high quality Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations which will be valued by residents and visitors, and continue to enhance Edinburgh’s reputation
Extend celebrations to other parts of the city
Deliver and evidence the environmental sustainability of the winter festivals, including through the local sourcing of products and minimising use of greenspace
Improve access for those previously less able to participate, including through physical accessibility, the design of activities for those with a range of needs, and for people on lower incomes and from deprived areas
Focus on making the celebrations family friendly
Maximise engagement with small and independent businesses to establish local market growth, including giving priority to existing and new local businesses and creatives
Also in response to the public’s feedback, the successful producer of Edinburgh’s Christmas will be required to minimise any use of greenspaces, introduce alcohol-free times and/or areas within Christmas celebrations, avoid overcrowding and improve access by distributing celebrations more widely throughout the city centre.
For Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, producers are being asked to deliver the traditional and favoured aspects of the festival, including a significant ‘midnight moment’ including for example fireworks, drones, lighting or any other significant intervention.
Council Leader Adam McVey said: “Through our citywide conversation with residents, businesses and stakeholders last year, it was clear that there was overwhelming support for the continuation of Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations in the Capital, but with a revised format.
“More than 8,600 people and 35 organisations responded to the survey, with 87% expressing support for a Christmas celebration and 86% for Hogmanay.
“I’m confident that by acting on residents’ feedback, we can remain the home of Hogmanay and ensure our Christmas events, enjoyed by so many across the City, continue in a way that balances residents’ needs and aspirations for how they should look and feel in future.”
Council Depute Leader Cammy Day said: “Our Winter Festivals are internationally renowned and, from our conversation with the city, we were pleased that the majority wanted the Capital to keep its place on the world map for Christmas celebrations and as home of Hogmanay.
“As well as contributing to the wellbeing of our residents, our Winter Festivals deliver real economic impact, benefitting tourism, hospitality and leisure sectors in particular.
“With these new contracts, we want to continue to provide inclusive high-quality festive celebrations, further enhance the city’s reputation and allow the benefits to be shared across our town centres and communities.”
First shows announced – and they’re udderly brilliant!
Photographed by David P Scott for Underbelly. All rights reserved.
Underbelly has revealed the first 10 shows to go on sale for this year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The stellar line-up includes the cream of the comedy and circus crop. Festival goers can purchase tickets via the Underbelly website – www.underbellyedinburgh.co.uk.
Underbelly at the Edinburgh Fringe runs from the 3 – 29 August 2022 across four sites: George Square, Circus Hub on the Meadows, Cowgate and Bristo Square.
McEwan Hall
With over 500 million views online, legendary comedy group Foil Arms and Hog will be back in the magnificent McEwan Hall this year to premiere their new show ‘Hogwash’. A mix of sketch comedy, audience participation and improvisation, get ready for some side splitting laughs!
McEwan Hall will also host Fringe-favourite comedian Jason Byrne with Jason Byrne: Unblocked. Join him live on stage as he unleashes what he does best – guaranteed, pure and utterly unfiltered joy and laughter.
Udderbelly George Square
The Amazing Bubble Man is back for a 14th year with another show of spellbinding bubble tricks to keep the whole family mesmerised. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe favourite will return to Udderbelly George Square with his family friendly show, exploring the breath-taking dynamic of bubbles.
Edinburgh Comedy Allstars returns to the purple cow with weekend comedy line-ups comprised of the biggest, brightest, and most hilarious comedians at the Fringe. Previous performers include a who’s who of comedy giants, from John Bishop, Phil Wang and Fern Brady to Joel Dommett – a sell-out show since 2017 and a must see!
The Cow will also play host to The WhatsOnStage Awards 2022 winnerRob Madge forBest Off-West End Production. Rob Madge: My Son’s A Queer (But What Can You Do), is the joyous autobiographical story of social-media sensation Rob, who brings to life their childhood rendition of a very memorable performance of a Disney parade. Hopefully, this time no one will mistake Aladdin for Ursula and by all means nobody dare to rain on it.
Circus Hub at The Meadows
Five-star Fringe favourite CIRCA returns to Underbelly’s Circus Hub with Circa: Humans 2.0 – the sequel to its internationally acclaimed and sold-out Fringe 2019 show. A symphony of acrobatics, sound and light, this next chapter of Humans is a tightly woven choreography of bodies pulsing with music. Intimate, primal, and deeply engaged with the challenge of being human.
Circus for all the family, Hotel Paradiso is the irresistibly colourful, loud, and fun show, from Guinness World Record Holders, Lost In Translation Circus. Heart-stopping aerials, stunning floor acrobatics, extraordinary juggling and theatrical storytelling combine to create this follow up to international hit The Hogwallops.
Bristo Square
Bristo Square will play host to Fringe World 2019 Best Comedy Show nominee Troy Hawke: Sigmund Troy’d! and Dave’s Funniest Jokes 2019 runner-up Richard Stott: Afterparty.
Underbelly Cowgate
Paul McCaffrey: We Go Again is a hilarious new stand-up show from the star of Live at the Apollo, Russell Howard’s Good News, Impractical Jokers UK and Stand Up Central.
Underbelly at the Edinburgh Fringe runs from the 3 – 29 August 2022 across 19 venues and 4 sites; George Square, Circus Hub, Cowgate and Bristo Square. Further exciting programme details will be revealed in the coming months.
Charlie Wood and Ed Bartlam, directors of Underbelly, said: “The Fringe is where Underbelly started 23 years ago and is the place, we call home. It’s been a challenging few years for everyone – we deserve to laugh, dance, sing and gaze in awe at some of the incredible acts we have lined up for 2022.
“We are incredibly excited at the prospect of Underbelly at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe being back with a bang this year!”
Following the global phenomenon of their 2021 film, Fare Well, and the cancellation of the live events, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay will release a new filmtonight on Hogmanay at 5pm, providing a free and hopefully inspirational offerfor the new year celebrations.
Available to stream for free, the film will pay tribute to the hope, love and optimism that people feel at Hogmanay and the turn of the year with a positive look forward to Scotland’s and Edinburgh’s future.
This new artistic collaboration isdelivered by Edinburgh’s Hogmanay producer, Underbelly, on behalf of the City of Edinburgh Council. Entitled ‘Journeys Home’, the project has been made possible with support from HM Government Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport.
The film is based on a short story written by Kathleen Jamie, the current Scots Makar, and specially commissioned by Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, and it draws inspiration from the resilience and sense of communitythat Edinburgh residents and Scotland as a nation have shown throughout the pandemic.
The film also features a specially composed soundtrack by Rura, one of Scotland’s most highly acclaimed folk bands featuring Jack Smedley, Steven Blake, Adam Brown and David Foley. With their distinct blend of fiddle, Highland pipes, flute, bodhrán and guitar, Rura capture the true essence of Hogmanay whilst also starring in the film themselves.
The film follows Kathleen Jamie’s four characters; Cait, Donald, Nana Jean and Calum, who narrate their personal Hogmanay stories, contemplating Hogmanay’s past and loved ones lost, as well as their hope and optimism for future Hogmanays to come.
The film, co-conceived by Underbelly and Arms & Legs, produced by Underbellyand directed by Ross Addy will premiere this evening, 31 December, from 5pm on the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay website here.
The new film has been created following the success of the 2020 production of Fare Well, which became a global phenomenon, seen by over 1 billion worldwide.
Underbelly Co-Directors, Charlie Wood and Ed Bartlam said: “Journeys Home feels like the perfect theme for this year’s film, as people yearn to meet family and friends at Hogmanay at the end of yet another scunnered year.
“Collaborating with the creative brilliance of Kathleen Jamie, Rura, and Arms and Legs has been really special – together they have made a film which sings to the world the creativity of Scottish artists and the hope and optimism that Scotland has for the new year.”
Scots Makar and ‘Journeys Home’ Writer Kathleen Jamie said: “As a writer, I’m not a great believer in ‘inspiration’. You just have to look and listen. We all know New Year is a complex time, more than just a big party – though there is joy and excitement too!
“But even in my own circle we have people who’ll be spending Hogmanay working in hospitals, or grieving loved ones lost in 2021, or who have had to cancel family visits yet again. We all know people who can’t bear to be alone, and others who take solace in the natural world, or in art and music.
“In ‘Journeys Home‘ I hope you will find someone or something you recognise, as we take leave of 2021, and look forward to better days ahead.”
Rura, ‘Journeys Home’ soundtrack composer said: “We were thrilled to be involved in the making of ‘Journeys Home’ and to join forces with such a fantastic team of collaborators!
“Obviously Hogmanay is the biggest night of the year in Scotland, so to play a small part in Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations, especially in the context of the past 2 years, is a true honour.
“We always strive to write music that resonates with people, and this film provided the perfect excuse to sit down and build an arrangement that conveys hope, love and optimism. The stunning camera work and spoken word really did bring tears to our eyes when we first watched it.”
‘Journeys Home’ Director, Ross Addy said: “We wanted to produce a film that faithfully represents the characters in Kathleen’s texts. Each is on their own unique journey, on their way to reconnecting with the people that matter most to them.
“Shooting on location in and around Edinburgh — as well as on Schiehallion — we always endeavoured to articulate the characters’ inner voices, while tracking their journeys through the cityscape and across one of Scotland’s iconic mountain landscapes.
“Hogmanay and New Year mean different things to different people. But the over-arching theme of the film is hope — the hope to reconnect and once again enjoy the relationships that make us human.”
Following recent COVID19 updates from the Scottish Government around Hogmanay celebrations, there will no longer be a midnight firework display at Edinburgh Castle on 31st December.
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay has announced it will be releasing a new film on 31 December from 5pm, providing a free, digital and inspirational part of the new year celebrations, for which the live elements have been recently cancelled.
The film will pay tribute to the hope, love and optimism that people feel when celebrating Hogmanay with those that matter most after a tough year,whilst expressing a positive look forward to Scotland and Edinburgh’s future.
This new artistic collaboration isdelivered by Edinburgh’s Hogmanay producer, Underbelly, on behalf of the City of Edinburgh Council.
This project, titled Journeys Home, has been made possible with support from HM Government Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport. The film is based on a short story written exclusively for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay by Kathleen Jamie, the current Scots Makar and draws inspiration from resilience and unwavering sense of communitythat Edinburgh residents and Scotland as a nation have shown throughout the pandemic.
The film features a specially composed soundtrack by Rura, one of Scotland’s most highly acclaimed folk bands featuring Jack Smedley, Steven Blake, Adam Brown and David Foley. With their distinct blend of fiddle, Highland pipes, flute, bodhrán and guitar, Rura capture the true essence of Hogmanay whilst also starring in the film themselves.
The film follows Kathleen Jamie’s four characters; Cait, Donald, Nana Jean and Calum, who narrate their personal Hogmanay stories, contemplating Hogmanay’s past and loved ones lost, as well as their hope and optimism for future Hogmanay celebrations to come.
‘Journeys Home’ is part of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay’s continued commitment to providing a free, digital element of the new year celebrations that everyone can enjoy from the comfort of their own home.
The film, co-conceived by Underbelly and Arms & Legs, produced byUnderbelly and directed by Ross Addy will premiere on the 31 December from 5pm on the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay website here.
From 28-30 December, Underbelly will stream daily at 5pm their 2020 production of Fare Well, which became a global phenomenon, seen by over 1 billion worldwide.
Underbelly Co-Directors, Charlie Wood and Ed Bartlam said: “’Journeys Home’ felt like the perfect theme for this year’s film, as people yearn to gather for Hogmanay.
“Collaborating with the creative brilliance of Kathleen Jamie, Rura, and Arms and Legs has been a true honour – together they have made a film which will sing out to the world the creativity of Scottish artists and the hope and optimism that Scotland have for the new year.”
Scots Makar and ‘Journeys Home’ Writer Kathleen Jamie said: “As a writer, I’m not a great believer in ‘inspiration’. You just have to look and listen.
“We all know New Year is a complex time, more than just a big party – though there is joy and excitement too! But even in my own circle we have people who’ll be spending Hogmanay working in hospitals, or grieving loved ones lost in 2021, or who have had to cancel family visits yet again.
“We all know people who can’t bear to be alone, and others who take solace in the natural world, or in art and music. In “Journeys Home” I hope you will find someone or something you recognise, as we take leave of 2021, and look forward to better days ahead.”
Following the change in Scottish Government guidance and restrictions announced on 21 December, Underbelly has regrettably confirmed the cancellation of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay programme for 2021.
The decision has been taken in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council, following the First Minister’s announcement, with the safety of all ticketholders, event staff and the wider city of Edinburgh being our foremost priority.
The Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Box Office team will contact all ticketholders in early January to arrange refund options.
A full summary of the Hogmanay celebrations cancelled are:
· Wednesday 29 – Friday 31 December – Scottish Music Programme at Greyfriars Kirk.
o Wednesday 29 December – Breabach
o Thursday 30 December – Dougie MacLean
o Friday 31 December – Eddi Reader
· Thursday 30 December – Torchlight Procession
· Friday 31 December – Party at the Bells
o Premium Access Tickets
o Garden Access Tickets
o Street Access Tickets
· Friday 31 December – Edinburgh’s iconic midnight fireworks display
· 1 January 2022 – Loony Dook at South Queensferry
Working closely with the City of Edinburgh Council and Scottish Government from the outset, Underbelly has ‘meticulously planned Edinburgh’s Hogmanay in the context of the pandemic, making Covid-19 passports or proof of negative lateral flow testing mandatory for collection of all tickets to Party at the Bells and the Torchlight Procession, as well as more recently proactively introducing the requirement for all ticket holders to all events within the Hogmanay programme to be able to provide proof of a negative lateral flow test from the day of the event they are attending’.
Unfortunately, due to the latest restrictions brought in by Scottish Government, the full Edinburgh’s Hogmanay line up cannot be delivered.
Underbelly Co-Directors, Charlie Wood and Ed Bartlam, said: “We are incredibly sad to announce the cancellation of the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay programme for 2021 following new restrictions announced by Scottish Government today.
“After such a tough year for so many people, we were looking forward to helping bring people back together safely at Edinburgh’s iconic Hogmanay celebrations.
“We know this news will be disappointing for so many people, but we also know that Edinburgh is a wonderfully innovative and resilient city, and we know it will recover from these difficult times and return to the forefront of the world’s new year celebrations in the future”.
Council Leader Adam McVey said: “Our first and foremost priority must always be to protect the health and wellbeing of the public, our staff and the city as a whole. I know it will be hugely disappointing for people, particularly young people who were planning to attend these events.
“Given the spread of this variant, reflected in the rising infection numbers, we need to avoid any additional burden on our health and emergency services. I’m grateful to the Scottish Government, Public Health, NHS and Police for their engagement with our teams to keep the City as safe as possible as we grapple with these challenges through the festive period.
“I would encourage everyone to continue following the guidance and to please celebrate Hogmanay safely and responsibly.”
Depute Leader Cammy Day said: “A huge amount of work has gone into the planning of this year’s events and I would like to thank Council staff, Underbelly and our other event partners for all their efforts in what have been difficult and ever-evolving circumstances.
“I know many people will be disappointed but I’m sure they will understand the reasons behind the decision. We can look forward to Edinburgh returning to its rightful place as the home of Hogmanay next year.”
Chief Superintendent Phil Davison, Gold Commander for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay policing operation, said: “As a result of the continued rise in COVID cases, linked to the Omicron Variant, the Torchlight Procession, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Party at the Bells, and the Loony Dook cancellations are an appropriate response in order to help stop the spread of the virus and protect the NHS.
“This decision was not taken by Police Scotland, but we fully support the actions taken by the event organisers and the local authority.
“We would ask that those who had been planning to attend these events do not make their way to the city centre and instead celebrate the New Year in line with the existing guidelines.”
City council leaders have urged residents to be extra vigilant and follow the guidance in place to help minimise the impact of the Omicron Covid variant.
Speaking at yesterday’s full Council meeting, Council Leader Adam McVey appealed to the public to test regularly, minimise social contacts and stay at home as much as possible in the lead-up to Christmas.
He also stressed the importance of getting vaccinated, and highlighted the efforts being made to facilitate vaccinations, including at the soon to be opened Edinburgh International Conference Centre mass vaccination centre.
Cllr McVey said: With cases of the Omicron variant now doubling every two or three days this is an area of huge concern, both for public health officials and ourselves as policy makers.
“I can’t stress enough the importance of following the rules around hand-washing, mask-wearing and ventilation and testing – visit our website for details of community testing sites or to order a home testing kit.
“Perhaps most importantly, getting vaccinated is probably our biggest weapon against serious illness and hospitalisation and I would urge everyone to make their appointment for first, second and booster vaccinations as quickly as possible.
“We’re working really hard with partners to maximise capacity for administering vaccinations, and this has included keeping the Royal Highland Centre open for appointments and reopening the Edinburgh International Conference Centre for vaccinations as soon as next week. Please visit the NHS website for more information and to book your appointment.
“As we approach Christmas, I also want to echo the First Minister’s advice to stay at home as much as possible – more than we normally would at this time of year – and minimise contacts.
“I know this is hard to do but we have it in our power to minimise the impact of this virus by reducing the chance for it to spread.”
Depute Leader Cammy Day added:“We face a rapidly evolving situation and we’re constantly monitoring the guidance with regard to our own buildings and services and also to provide guidance and support to businesses across the city to continue to operate safely.
“As well as having to adapt to the latest guidance, this is an extremely uncertain time and a particular concern for our local businesses and I’d like to take the opportunity to encourage everyone to shop local wherever possible.
“As soon as details of national support for business schemes are confirmed our teams are ready to help administer this too, as we have done throughout the pandemic.
“We’ll do all we can to keep any disruption to an absolute minimum but there’s every chance that we’ll have to make changes over the coming weeks. We’re planning ahead and liaising with partners to make sure we’re prepared. Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for further information and service updates.”
Lord Provost Frank Ross said earier this week: “As we look forward to Christmas and the New Year, we all have a duty to do so responsibly with the safety of others foremost in our minds.”
NOTE: The Scottish Government published the updated business guidance yesterday afternoon
Community test centres and mobile test centres are open for people with no Covid symptoms. Full details of these, and how to order home lateral flow testing kits, are available online.
Edinburghís Hogmanay Street paty.Photo David Cheskin.31.12.18
Underbelly, the producers of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay on behalf of the City of Edinburgh Council, have announced that all ticket holders will be required to be able to provide proof of a negative lateral flow test from the day of the ticketed event to gain access to Party at the Bells, the Torchlight Procession, all concerts that are part of the Scottish music programme in Greyfriars Kirk and the Loony Dook.
Underbelly’s additional safety measures go over and above the latest Scottish Government guidance, as part of a continued commitment to providing a safe and great Hogmanay for the city of Edinburgh.
The updated Edinburgh’s Hogmanay safety measures include:
The Torchlight Procession: Thursday, 30 December
All ticket holders must be able to provide proof of a negative lateral flow on the day of the event (30 December) when collecting their torches from one of the three pick up locations.
Ticket holders must register their test result through the government website and bring the text or email with proof of the negative result in order to attend the event. A full list of COVID information and guidelines can be found here and on the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay website for anyone attending.
Scottish Music Programme at Greyfriars Kirk – 29 – 31 December
All ticket holders must be able to provide proof of a negative lateral flow from the day of the event that they are attending at entry to Greyfriars Kirk. Ticketholders must register their test result through the NHS Scotland inform page and bring the text or email with proof of the negative result in order to attend the event.
A full list of COVID information and guidelines can be found here and on the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay website for anyone attending. Additionally, Scottish Music Programme attendees at Greyfriars Kirk will be required to wear a face covering while enjoying the entertainment and will be asked to scan the Scottish Government Test and Trace QR code upon entering the venue.
Party at the Bells – Friday, 31 December, 10pm-1am
Underbelly will be opening the Box Office from Tuesday, 27th December for ticket holders to collect their official tickets and wristbands. Upon collection, members of the public will be required to provide proof of a negative lateral flow test taken within 48 hours or their vaccine passport.
Additionally, all Party at the Bells attendees will need to be able to provide proof of a negative lateral flow from the day of the event at an entry point into Party at the Bells to gain access to the event on 31 December. This applies to Street Access, Garden Access and Premium Access ticket holders.
Ticketholders must register their test result through the NHS Scotland inform page and bring the text or email with proof of the negative result in order to attend the event. A full list of COVID information and guidelines can be found here for anyone attending.
Loony Dook – Saturday, 1st January, 10:30am
Participants must be able to provide proof of a negative lateral flow result at the South Queensferry registration point.
The lateral flow test must be taken on the morning of the event and registered negative through the NHS Scotland inform page and bring the text or email with proof of the negative result in order to attend the event.
A full list of COVID information and guidelines can be found here and on the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay website for anyone attending.
Underbelly Co-Directors, Charlie Wood and Ed Bartlam, said: “Underbelly continues to work daily with the Scottish Government and City of Edinburgh Council and agencies to deliver a safe and a great Hogmanay.
“With safety at the heart of everything we do, we have decided proactively to introduce additional measures that are designed to protect our audiences, artists and employees to keep them safe.
“We and all agencies are working hard to deliver the event and to welcome audiences to Princes Street, placing Scotland at the forefront of the world’s new year events.”
Culture and Communities Convener, Cllr Donald Wilson of City of Edinburgh Council added: “Our absolute priority will always be the health and wellbeing of the public, staff and the city as a whole.
“We’re continually reviewing and updating our plans for Hogmanay in the face of the changing circumstances posed by the pandemic and these additional measures will help to ensure that our events are as safe as possible.”
Now, controlling those Christmas Market numbers – Ed. …
City of Edinburgh Council Winter Festivals Public Consultation report finds almost 90% of respondents are in favour of Underbelly’s Winter Festival events
A new report conducted by the City of Edinburgh Council has revealed that 87% of surveyed respondents are in favour of Edinburgh’s Christmas with a further 86% in favour of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, highlighting the resounding approval of Edinburgh’s Winter Festival.
The Winter Festivals Public Consultation Report surveyed 8,612 people between February – May of this year. Other highlights included:
Over 90% of those surveyed had attended Edinburgh’s Christmas in the past and over half of tickets for this year’s Hogmanay celebrations – Party at the Bells – have been purchased by those living in EH postcodes, proving the Winter Festivals are a firm favourite with locals.
73% of businesses surveyed in the city said that the Winter Festivals contributed to an increase in their turnover and footfall.
92% of locals agreed that the Winter Festivals are welcoming to tourists and other visitors.
The report also showcased the popularity of the dedicated 20% discount for those with an EH postcode, with 78% of respondents welcoming an Edinburgh resident’s discount.
Underbelly, the producers of Edinburgh’s Christmas and Hogmanay on behalf of the City of Edinburgh Council, have incorporated feedback from previous events in this year’s programme, all of which echoes the findings in the survey.
Answering 39% of respondents wish for the celebrations to be spread throughout the City Centre, the organisers of Edinburgh’s Christmas have extended the celebrations to the West End of the city this year with events in West Princes Street Gardens and the ice rink on George Street, driving footfall to the wider city centre areas.
27% of those that were surveyed were concerned about the environmental impact of the Winter Festivals, which is being addressed by Festivals Edinburgh Carbon Reduction Road Map, including a 50% reduction in use of diesel generators, to be replaced by cleaner fuel generators or mains power by 2025.
Concessions for disabled and elderly people, as well as discount for young people were also requested and are already offered as part of the Winter Festival programme.
Underbelly Co-Directors, Charlie Wood and Ed Bartlam said: “The views of local Edinburgh residents and businesses are always at the forefront of our planning for Edinburgh’s Winter Festivals so to have nearly 90% approval for our programming is hugely encouraging.
“In advance of seeing this report and in the planning of this year’s events, we think we’ve taken many of the recommendations on board and based on the response to date, the events are being hugely enjoyed by Edinburgh residents.
“That said, reports like this are extremely valuable and we shall wait to see how the Council decides to move ahead next year before deciding whether to throw our hat back in the ring.”
Council: Survey reveals overwhelming support for continuation of winter celebrations in the Capital, but with a revised format
Residents and organisations across Edinburgh have backed the continuation of the city’s Christmas and Hogmanay events, according to the results of an independent surveyconducted for the city council.
More than 8,600 people and 35 organisations responded to the survey on the future of Edinburgh’s Winter Festivals, with 87% expressing support for a Christmas celebration and 86% for Hogmanay.
The 12-week consultation, carried out in Spring this year by independent market research company Progressive on behalf of the Council, sought feedback from the Capital’s residents, communities and businesses on the events from 2022 onwards, after the current contact ends. Several targeted focus groups were also conducted with parents, young people and special interest groups.
Respondents were asked about their experiences of winter celebrations in the Capital, as well as what activities they would like to see included in future.
Overall, results showed a wish to continue to provide high quality Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations which will be valued by residents and visitors and to also provide events that will continue to enhance Edinburgh’s reputation, and to make changes to past formats and avoid overcrowding and improve access.
Responses and the findings in the report have provided a framework and general principles for the delivery of future editions of the Winter Festivals.
There is a clear desire for the city to celebrate this time of year, albeit with a revised format, and as a result, it is being proposed that new models for their delivery are piloted in 2022/23.
These proposals, along with the results of the consultation, will be discussed by the Council’s Policy and Sustainability Committee next week.
It is proposed that a procurement exercise will be undertaken to identify a producer to deliver Edinburgh’s Christmas for a one year pilot, using the clear feedback from the consultation to ensure that it meets the needs of residents and businesses and is of appropriate scale.
For Hogmanay and wider winter activity, it is proposed to appoint an individual or organisation to a Winter Festivals Director role.
They would have responsibility for developing and delivering a Winter Festival programme based on the theme of Light and incorporating the desired elements of fireworks, lighting installations and live music from the consultation. Partnership with local artists, communities, performers and creatives would be essential in the development of this programme.
Council Leader Cllr Adam McVey said: “Firstly, I want to thank all those who took the time to take part in the consultation – we had an excellent response and the views of people in Edinburgh will shape the future of these events.
“Our Winter Festivals have grown in size and popularity over the years and have created some amazing experiences and images that has shown Edinburgh at its best.
However, if we’re to make the fun and enjoyment of winter sustainable, we must listen and respond to the views of our residents and other stakeholders. Through this major consultation, we’ve got a better idea of how they regard the celebrations, both positive and negative.
“The results are very encouraging but, as expected, respondents highlighted a range of issues that we will factor into our planning for future years.
“Some of these issues were already known to us, particularly in relation to pressure on the city centre, and this year’s lay-out reflects this as we look to respond to concerns and aspirations of residents and business. But we know from the positive experiences of the summer festivals that we can and must do more to spread the benefits across our communities.”
Council Depute Leader Cllr Cammy Day said: “The festive period is an extremely special time for our Capital City and, as well as contributing to the wellbeing of our residents, our Winter Festivals deliver real economic impact, benefitting tourism, hospitality and leisure sectors in particular.
“It is fantastic to see that there is a clear desire to keep the winter celebrations with many respondents commenting on how they are now part of Edinburgh’s tradition, and how much they were missed in 2020. However, it was also hugely important to hear what concerns there are and what people would like to see more of.
“Thanks to the feedback gathered earlier this year we’ll now be able to take people’s comments and ideas into account as we plan for next year, and beyond.”
Key findings included:
Food and beverages (82%), musical performances (77%) and activities for children (76%) were the top preferred activities for Christmas.
Fireworks (79%), lighting installations (77%) and live music performances (75%) were the top three preferred activities for Hogmanay.
Alcoholic drinks (56%) and funfair rides (47%) were the least wanted activities for Christmas celebrations.
Street party and mass gathering (49%) was the least wanted activity.
Respondents also called for future winter celebrations to have local involvement of artists and performers and Scottish/local culture.
In response to making Christmas and Hogmanay more accessible to people with disabilities, physical access issues such as wheelchair accessibility and restrictions on the number of people attending dominated.
Find out more about the consultation responses online.
Edinburgh’s Christmas is open! Festival goers at East Princes Street Gardens and Santa Land in its new home of West Princes Street Gardens made the most of opening weekend, with 92,446 people getting into the Christmas spirit in a fun, safe environment.
And one of the most spectacular new ice rinks in the UK is all set to open TODAY.
Visitors will be able to put their skates on for the first time since 2018 and make the most of the ice rink, sponsored by Lidl GB and partnered by Essential Edinburgh.
Those that were looking to stay cosy over the weekend, winter warmers such as mulled wine and hot chocolate were on the menu as visitors made the most of the food and drink offerings that you skate up to within the rink.
Edinburgh Christmas 2021, Santa Land, West Princes Street Gardens
Children from across Scotland made their way through the Christmas Tree maze in a bid to find Santa’s Elves Workshop to get their Christmas wishes in early!
Christmas cheer was also in full force across East and West Princes Street where an array of festive craft, food & drink stalls and the Christmas Markets, Santa Land, featuring the magical Santa’s Grotto and family friendly attractions, including the Christmas Tree Maze, were bustling from morning till night.
Edinburgh’s Christmas will run until 4th January.
Tickets for Ice Skating, Santa’s Grotto, The Forth 1 Big Wheel and Christmas Tree Maze are available to purchase through Edinburgh’s Christmas website.
Those with an EH postcode receive 20% off their tickets.
Geometric snowflakes will also illuminate The Mound alongside Edinburgh’s Christmas tree from today.
Edinburgh Christmas 2021, Santa Land, East Princes Street Gardens
Underbelly Co-Directors, Charlie Wood and Ed Bartlam said: “Edinburgh’s Christmas is back! Our opening weekend was a huge success and it’s been great to see everyone spreading the Christmas cheer – at long last!
“We’re so excited to unveil our spectacular new ice rink on George Street, it’s set to become an icon for the city and for Scotland of how to celebrate winter.”
The double BRIT and Grammy winners will be supported by BBC Radio 1 DJ, and Scotland’s answer to Annie Mac, Arielle Free, who will be returning to Edinburgh’s Hogmanay after ringing in the bells in 2019. Party goers can prepare themselves for more bangers than the midnight fireworks, making it the best place to welcome the new year!
Garden Access Tickets for Party at the Bells are now sold out, a limited number of Premium Garden Access Tickets for Party at the Bells went on sale today (Tuesday 9 November) at 10am.
Party at the Bells: Street Access tickets will allow revellers to view Basement Jaxx’s DJ set through a series of screens as they are beamed onto the street from the Ross Bandstand. Party goers will also enjoy interactive street theatre entertainment from Close-Act Street Theatre, who will be joined by Scottish based PyroCeltica with more acts to be announced soon.
The world-renowned midnight firework display will also return with a bang, accompanied by a special soundtrack from Basement Jaxx themselves.
Underbelly Co-Directors, Charlie Wood and Ed Bartlam, said: ‘Basement Jaxx are world class DJs and we’re bringing them to Edinburgh for the biggest night of the year!
“Nothing brings people together like live music and, after a year like no other, we can’t wait to see them on stage in Edinburgh, helping us to see 2021 out in style.’
Basement Jaxx duo, Felix Burton and Simon Ratcliffe said: “Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is an iconic event known to artists around the world.
“The crowds in Edinburgh are always full of atmosphere and we know it will be a special night heading into 2022.”
Cllr Cammy Day, Depute Leader of the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “Edinburgh is THE place to be to celebrate Hogmanay and it’s great to have the return of live events including music from Basement Jaxx to herald 2022.
“The past year has been very challenging right across the globe and for us, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is such a fantastic way to close 2021 and bring a shared sense of renewed hope and optimism for the year ahead.”
In a showcase of some of the best of Scottish music, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay festival will also see Greyfriars Kirk play host to imaginative contemporary folk act, Breabach, on 29 December whilst local singer-songwriter, Dougie Maclean OBE and three x BRIT Award winner, Eddi Reader OBE take to the stage on 30 and 31 December respectively.
Working closely with the City of Edinburgh Council and Scottish Government, Underbelly is meticulously planning Edinburgh’s Hogmanay in the context of Covid-19 and is dedicated to creating a safe and fun environment for the 2021 celebrations. Ticket holders for the Party at the Bells and the Torchlight Procession, who are aged 18 and over, will need to show a Covid-19 passport to enter the events.
