Inverness Hogmanay 2023 guide: Fireworks, street parade and the biggest ceilidh in the world
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
As the New Year approaches, Inverness gears up to host an incredible celebration at the Northern Meeting Park. The highlight? The world's largest ceilidh, set to captivate attendees with traditional revelry.
Alongside this historic dance extravaganza, expect a dazzling fireworks display illuminating the night sky and a lively street parade showcasing the region's rich culture as Scottish stars take to the stage for what is set to be a magnificent performance.
To top it off, the park will transform into a food lover's paradise, offering an array of delicious delights from local vendors,in addition to alcoholic beverages. Join for an unforgettable Hogmanay where music, dance, fireworks, and scrumptious food unite to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new in true Scottish spirit.
Read on for a short guide to everything you need to know about Hogmanay in Inverness this year.
What to expect from the Red Hot Highland Fling?
The city will host one of the largest New Year’s Eve ceilidhs on the planet, with entertainment from some of Scotland’s top traditional musicians and singers – with 15-20 dance masters on hand to offer guidance.
Everyone is invited to join the procession which will be led by Pyro Celtica and Harbinger Drumming Group, who have previously led Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations.
The procession will start at Falcon Square and end at the Northern Meeting Park, where the ticket entry event will take place.
There will be instrumental fireworks provided by multi award-winning duo Ali Hutton and Ross Ainslie, who were the driving force behind The Treacherous Orchestra. And they’ll be joined by Ewan Robertson from current winners of the Scots Folk Band of the year Breabach.
Food and drink will be available to buy from various local markets inside the venue.
Will there be fireworks?
There will be a symbolic single firework to kick off the party, followed by a seven-minute display at the bells to commemorate the new year.
This will be held at the Northern Meeting Park in Inverness where ticket holders can enjoy the show.
Is alcohol permitted?
Those attending the event are not permitted to bring their own alcohol to the event, however alcoholic beverages will be sold on site and available to purchase throughout the evening.
Empty water bottle containers are allowed.
Can you leave and re-enter the event?
There is a no-return policy once you have left the event due to health and safety regulations, therefore once you're in the venue, you either have to stay or leave permanently.
Are pets allowed?
Animals are not permitted to attend the event due to numerous activities, such as fireworks, that could startle them.
Is there a cut-off time to enter the event?
There is no cut-off time to enter the event, meaning that ticket holders are able to enter up until midnight.
Are there any restricted items?
Prohibited items include drugs, weapons, smoke canisters or flares.
However, umbrellas, water bottles and portable chairs are allowed.
Where can I find tickets for the Red Hot Highland Fling?
Tickets can be purchased via the Highland Winter Festival website where they are being sold at a fixed price of £12.50 per person, including children.
There will also be the option to purchase tickets at the door on the night, if still available, however those keen to attend the event have been advised to book there place in advance as thousands are already set to join.
Who will be on the stage?
One of Scotland’s finest ceilidh bands Highland Fire, who include local lads Calum MacPhail and Sean Cousins, from the band Horo, are set to keep the dancers moving.
Then in those moments when a rest is required there will be the absolute best from Scotland’s traditional music scene.
Skipinnish’s very own Norrie MacIver will be joining for some songs in both English and Gaelic.
There will also be three-time winner of the Scots Trad Music Award and BBC Radio 2 Folk Award winner Siobhan Miller to lead us up to the bells.
Instrumental fireworks will be provided by Ali Hutton and Ross Ainslie. They’ll be joined by Ewan Robertson.
What's the weather going to be like?
Despite the horrific conditions caused by Storm Gerrit this week, the weather is expected to hold up for the event as it remains cloudy with the chance of scattered showers. But for anyone travelling, there is a yellow weather warning for snow and rain in place for the majority of the Highlands today.
