The streets of Edinburgh are coming to Ottawa's Glebe neighborhood this New Year's Eve, thanks to the Scottish Society of Ottawa. The group is hosting its annual Hogmanay Ceilidh, a traditional Scottish celebration to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new.
A Traditional Celebration in the Capital
The society appeared on Your Morning Ottawa to share details about the vibrant event, which aims to recreate the festive atmosphere of a Scottish street party right in the heart of the city. Hogmanay is the Scots word for the last day of the year and is synonymous with large, public celebrations featuring music, dance, and community.
This event provides a cultural cornerstone for Ottawa's Scottish community and offers all residents a unique way to celebrate the transition into the new year. The Ceilidh (pronounced 'kay-lee'), a social gathering with Gaelic folk music and dancing, is the centerpiece of the festivities.
Bringing Scottish Culture to Life
By transforming a part of the Glebe, the society hopes to capture the spirit of Edinburgh's world-famous Hogmanay celebration, which draws hundreds of thousands of people to the Scottish capital annually. The Ottawa version promises to be a family-friendly event filled with traditional tunes and energetic dances.
The event was scheduled for December 31, 2025, offering a distinctive alternative to standard New Year's Eve parties. It highlights the city's diverse cultural fabric and the active role of heritage societies in enriching community life.
More Than Just a Party
Events like the Hogmanay Ceilidh do more than entertain; they preserve and promote cultural traditions for new generations. For Ottawans of Scottish descent, it's a cherished link to their heritage. For others, it's an invitation to experience the warmth, music, and communal joy of a Scottish New Year.
As the clock strikes midnight, participants will join together, undoubtedly with a chorus of "Auld Lang Syne," to celebrate new beginnings with a distinctly Caledonian flair in the heart of Canada's capital.
