CNN’s New Year broadcasts will reach over 500 million households worldwide, as the network explores the Scottish Hogmanay traditions that have inspired celebrations around the world. 

Showcasing events including the Torchlight Procession on December 29, Ho Ho Hogmanay and the Night Afore Concert on December 30, as well as the world-renowned Midnight Moment from Edinburgh Castle, the coverage is set to reinforce Edinburgh’s reputation as the home of Hogmanay and a world-class destination for welcoming the New Year. 

Broadcasting Edinburgh’s fireworks to homes across the US, UK, Asia, and Europe, CNN will also platform Scottish artists including Edinburgh Poet Laureate Michael Pedersen for a candlelit recital of Auld Lang Syne from St.Giles’ Cathedral, Peat & Diesel, and the family friendly Bairns Hogmanay Ceilidh on Hogmanay itself.  

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Max Foster, CNN Anchor and Correspondent said: “Hogmanay in Edinburgh is unlike anything else in the world. I’m looking forward to bringing every part of this incredible celebration to CNN’s global audience—from joining the Vikings and pipers in the ‘River of Fire’ Torchlight Procession through to the spectacular midnight fireworks from Edinburgh Castle as well as our exclusive candlelit reading of Auld Lang Syne at St Giles’ Cathedral. It’s going to be an unforgettable way to welcome 2026.” 

Council Leader Jane Meagher said: “As the home of Hogmanay, our celebrations have long been the envy of cities across the world. Hogmanay is about more than the countdown to midnight – it is a celebration of our city, our people and our ability to bring communities together on an international stage.  

“To be able to share the atmosphere, energy and sense of occasion with a worldwide audience is something I’m incredibly proud of, and I look forward to welcoming viewers from around the world as we celebrate the New Year here in Edinburgh.” 

Vicki Miller, VisitScotland Chief Executive, said: “Scotland is proud to be taking centre stage on CNN as part of their New Year coverage from around the world.  This is a unique opportunity offering viewers a front row seat to our world-famous Hogmanay celebrations, as well as our rich culture, creativity, and traditions.   

“The US is Scotland’s largest international visitor market in both volume and spend, contributing millions to our economy, each year, with strong potential for continued growth.  This activity will further showcase Edinburgh’s breathtaking backdrop as well as Scotland’s warm welcome and spirit on a global scale, which we hope will inspire even more visitors to plan their future trip to Scotland.” 

A torchlight procession traditionally opens Edinburgh’s Hogmanay festival

Edinburgh’s festivities form part of CNN’s monumental 18-hour global New Year programme, showcasing major New Year celebrations from Auckland to Los Angeles and everywhere in between. Airing live on CNN International, CNN US and streaming platforms, the programme will feature presenters and performances from more than a dozen cities worldwide, with Edinburgh at the heart of the show.  

Adding to its global offering, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay has also announced events will be live streamed for the first time, allowing audiences unable to attend in person to experience First Footin’ from anywhere in the world.  

Live streams from both St Giles’ Cathedral and Greyfriars Kirk will be broadcast between 2–6pm on New Year’s Day via www.edinburghshogmanay.com, extending the reach of the celebrations beyond the capital and sharing Edinburgh’s music, culture and atmosphere with a global audience. 

Online audiences can enjoy live performances from the Tinderbox Orchestra with special guests Rachel Sermanni, James Emmanuel and Kathryn Joseph at St Giles’, alongside electro-trad pioneers Valtos at Greyfriars Kirk, joined by special guests from the Basque Country including Maren, Mikel Urdangarin and Olaia Inziarte, for an afternoon of powerful collaborations and world-class music. 

CNN reaches approximately 80 million households in the U.S. CNN Digital is the number one online news destination, routinely registering more than 150 million unique visitors globally each month. CNN International reaches more than 321 million households worldwide. 

Tickets for all events, including Concert in the Gardens with Wet Leg, Torchlight Procession, and Night Afore Concert with Peat & Diesel, as well as further event information and times, are available at www.edinburghshogmanay.com.