HOGMANAY08
New year, new you While the Hogmanay festivities generally amount to eating, drinking and being a bit merry, there is ample alternative for those looking to blow away the cobwebs
A round the globe Scotland is known for its ability to welcome the New Year more joyously than anyone, but if you want to avoid the hangover, or take the turning of a new year as the perfect opportunity to turn over a new leaf, there is plenty on offer for those looking for a healthy Hogmanay.
Those willing to brave the chill with a spot of adrenaline adventuring need look no further than the now infamous Loony Dook at South Queensferry. Last year’s event was an unprecedented success with over 600 people taking a plunge into the Forth, while some 3000 spectators gathered around to witness the ‘Loonies’ at work. Wet suits are not allowed but the fancy dress is encouraged with much of the money raised going to charity. Events kick off at 11am with a parade through South Queensferry’s streets before the Dook itself. For landlubbers and the hardcore, the annual Edinburgh Bicycle Triathlon (400-metre swim, 11 mile bike ride, 3 and half mile run) and Kids Duathlon kick off on the 1st of January in Holyrood Park and the Commonwealth Pool. Places are limited so fill out your entry form ASAP.
16 THE LIST 11 Dec 2008–8 Jan 2009
If races aren’t your thing, how about a bit of ice skating at George Square and Princes Street ice rinks as part of Glasgow On Ice and Winter Wonderland? Don your woollies and blades of steel and after an hour on the ice you’ll soon be as svelte as a Russian figure skater.
For those preferring to sit back and be entertained instead, look no further than the Jolly Jango Christmas for a spot of comedy magic, as Clive Nicholas entertains in La Gaiete Spiegeltent for some indoors revelry. Running throughout December, the show doesn’t hang up its juggling balls until 4 January. Those hoping for a spot of post Crimbo retail therapy, should head for the Traditional Highland Village Christmas Market in East Princes Street Gardens, which is opens until 4 January, showcasing chesses, jewellery and tarot readings. Or if the weather holds out, the energetic can take a walk down to the Water of Leith, boasting secret thoroughfares to some of Edinburgh’s most beautiful views.
Check out www.theloonydook.co.uk, www.edinburghshogmanay.com, www.winterfestglasgow.com for full details.
EDINBURGH HIGHLIGHTS
If the lush electronica of Friendly Fires (pictured below) or the pretty-boy blues rock of Paolo doesn’t grab you, there are plenty more relaxed (and even indoor) alternatives to the festive mayhem, such as the Candlelit Concert in St Giles on 31 December. Featuring Vivaldi’s Gloria, the concert celebrates the 50th Anniversary of Vaughan William’s death with his Fantasia on Christmas Carols. Tickets are £17.50 and it starts at 7.30pm.
The Hoog at George Street’s Assembly Rooms is a chance to cut a rug and ceilidh your way into 2009, and features live music from Teannaich plus chill-out rooms for when your feet cry out for mercy. Tickets are £52.50, and it’s on from 7pm- 2am. If you prefer an early warm-up to the big countdown, take the family along for an afternoon of fun and traditional celebrations at the Hogmanay Ceilidh in the National Museum of Scotland on Chambers Street. The Canongate Cadjers Ceilidh Band will be present to provide the best of lively Celtic music. Be in position for Gay Gordoning and Willow Stripping at 2pm, and the event is free.
The familiar sight of the Royal Mile bathed in a
river of fire will greet the citizens of Edinburgh once more this year on 29 December. No it’s not Armageddon, it’s the much loved Torchlight Procession. Starting at 6pm, the procession starts at the City Chambers, finishes at Calton Hill (via The High St, The Mound, Princes Street and Waterloo Place). Torches cost £6 with proceeds going to the One City Trust, and fireworks, bagpipes, drums and fire sculptures all bringing the event to life. After all the drunken lairiness of Hogmanay perhaps you feel like something a little more cultural. Have a gander at Feet First on 1 January, a brand new free outdoor theatre event on the High Street. The street, the courtyards, the closes and even the windows will be utilised for a collection of performances, installations and interactive entertainment. Up to 10,000 people are expected and with over 120 artists taking part, it’s bound to get the old brain cogs a-turning.
www.list.co.uk/events/hogmanay, www.edinburghshogmanay.org