Edinburgh

Hogmanay translates to last day of the year, but the annual festivities in Edinburgh actually last three days. Things kick off on December 30 with a torchlight procession through the city that culminates in a fireworks finale, while New Years Eve is all about massive street parties and outdoor concerts, including a massive, open air Kelidh (traditional Celtic party). At midnight, 4.5 tons of fireworks explode over Edinburgh Castle while the streets ring out with revelers singing Auld Lang Syne. New Years Day brings competitive dog sledding across Holyrood Park; brave souls jumping into the ice cold waters of the River Forth at the conclusion of the Loony Dook parade (a charity event); and ScotLands, a multivenue music and arts festival.