Sing Auld Lang Syne in Edinburgh

Travellers eager to let their hair down at the end of 2006 could make their new year swing in with a bang at the world-famous Hogmanay celebrations in Edinburgh.

This four-day extravaganza begins on December 29th with a torchlight procession through the streets of the city, followed by a party with a cosmopolitan theme on December 30th.

Each year, the Night Afore International event focuses on one country – which is Germany this year – and brings its own customs, food and celebrations to the heart of Edinburgh.

For the main night itself, revellers can experience a wide range of events and festivities.

Visitors to Edinburgh can choose from the Royal Bank street party, a concert in the West Princes Street Gardens, a traditional ceilidh, an indoor mini music festival and a candlelit concert in a cathedral.

At the end of the evening, party-goers gather on seven hills throughout the city to witness spectacular fireworks displays brightening the night sky.

For those who wish to work off the excesses of the big party, January 1st sees a number of sporting events take place around Edinburgh, including a fun run, a children's duathlon and an adult's triathlon.

Check out the official Edinburgh Hogmanay website for further information.

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