A SELL-OUT crowd of 5,000 rang in the New Year from the Stirling Castle Esplanade with a thrilling mix of exciting live music and spectacular fireworks.

Even with a total increase of 1000 tickets on last year’s capacity for Stirling’s Hogmanay and Stirling’s Family Hogmanay, the continuing popularity of both events saw high demand for tickets, with the last ones snapped up on the day.   

Revellers were entertained by exhilarating live music from established acts, including Scottish supergroup, Treacherous Orchestra, and some of the best up-and-coming Scottish talent, such as Stephanie Cheape, Gemma Lamont and Dlu.

The celebrations climaxed with two stunning fireworks displays, introduced by pipers and set to the iconic backdrop of Stirling Castle, with the midnight one played out to some of nation’s best-loved songs referencing coast and waters, marking the start of Scotland’s celebratory 2020-themed year.

The two ceilidhs at the Tolbooth were also sold out, further underlining the popularity of the city’s Hogmanay celebrations. 

Stirling’s Hogmanay was organised by Stirling Council and supported by Scotland’s Winter Festivals event fund, managed by EventScotland on behalf of Scottish Government.

Cllr Chris Kane, convener of Stirling’s Council’s Community Planning and Regeneration Committee, represented the authority as Bailie at Stirling’s Hogmanay.

He said: “I would like to thank everyone who came along to enjoy the fantastic musical entertainment and the breath-taking spectacle of the fireworks illuminating Stirling Castle.

“To sell out Stirling’s Hogmanay, the family event and two ceilidhs is a tremendous achievement and shows the growing reputation of our Hogmanay celebrations and that Stirling continues to be a must-visit destination.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a prosperous and a very happy New Year.”

Ticket requests came in from as far and wide as Australia and USA, highlighting the event’s global appeal. 

Cllr Maureen Bennison, Vice Convener of the Committee added: “I am thrilled that our two fantastic Hogmanay parties have continued to prove popular to residents and visitors from all over the world.    

“With the diverse line-up of music and entertainment, and the spectacular sight of fireworks exploding in a kaleidoscope of colour to the backdrop of Stirling Castle, I am sure families and friends partied into 2020 in style.”