Economic Impact of Edinburgh's Winter Festival
Edinburgh's winter festival contributed nearly a quarter of a billion pounds to the local economy in the last year, according to a recent report.
Organisers Unique Assembly reported that the city's Christmas and Hogmanay events, which encompass the Christmas markets and the New Year's Eve street party, generated approximately £241 million for Edinburgh during the 2025/26 season.
This year marked the full return of the Hogmanay festival, which had been cancelled the previous year due to "extreme weather" conditions.
Attendance and Visitor Statistics
Council leader Jane Meagher highlighted the festival's role in creating "lasting benefits" for residents, businesses, and communities across Edinburgh.
Unique Assembly stated that over 115,000 people attended the four-day Hogmanay festival last year.
An estimated 100,000 attendees participated in the traditional street party and concert held in Princes Street Gardens, which featured a headline performance by Wet Leg.
The organisers recorded a total of 2.9 million visits to various winter festival locations, including the market in the Gardens.
They also noted that for every £1 spent by the council, £297 was generated in economic activity.
Statements from Organisers and Officials
In a statement, Unique Assembly described the festival as a "source of civic pride" and a "social benefit for Edinburgh and its communities."
"Delivering £241m in economic impact and some of the highest visitor satisfaction levels we've ever seen is something everyone involved can be incredibly proud of,"
"These results underline just how important Edinburgh's Winter Festival has become - not only to the city's economy, but to its communities, cultural life and global reputation."
Community Engagement and Charity Contributions
During the festival, more than 8,500 free tickets and ride passes were distributed to local residents, and £49,000 was raised for the event's official charity partners.
Unique Assembly also reported that approximately three-quarters of the stall holders at the Christmas market were Scottish-based, with many originating from Edinburgh itself.
Comments from Council Leader Jane Meagher
Meagher noted that the festival had been "embraced by both residents and visitors."
"I'm proud that we've been able to deliver meaningful benefits for our communities through increased free tickets and ride passes, alongside record charitable donations that are helping support local causes across the city."
"Looking ahead to next year, we're committed to building on this success and ensuring Edinburgh's winter festival continues to deliver unforgettable experiences while creating lasting benefits for our residents, businesses and communities."
