Get ready, Edinburgh! The buzz is real! Indie darlings Wet Leg are taking center stage at Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 2025, ready to blast us into the New Year with their chart-topping hits. Imagine ringing in 2026 under the stunning Edinburgh Castle with their iconic sound. What’s your go-to Wet Leg track for a New Year’s Eve singalong?
Edinburgh is gearing up for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve as acclaimed indie-rock duo Wet Leg is confirmed to headline the city’s iconic Hogmanay celebrations, promising an electrifying performance to usher in 2026. This highly anticipated event will see thousands of revelers converge at the Ross Bandstand in West Princes Street Gardens, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
Rising to international prominence in 2022 with their Mercury Prize-nominated debut album, Wet Leg quickly captivated audiences worldwide. Their distinctive sound and captivating stage presence led to significant accolades, including two prestigious Grammy Awards and two BRIT Awards, cementing their status as a critically acclaimed and universally beloved band.
The Concert in the Gardens headline set will mark Wet Leg’s inaugural appearance at Edinburgh’s legendary Hogmanay festival, a truly momentous occasion for both the band and their devoted fans. Taking to the stage on December 31, 2025, their performance is expected to be a highlight of the multi-day festivities.
Speaking about their upcoming performance, a representative from Wet Leg expressed immense excitement: “I’m properly excited to be asked to perform at this year’s Hogmanay celebrations. As a local and a street party goer, I know how big a gig it is, and the size of shoes we need to fill – we’re well up for the challenge. It’s a privilege to be asked – 2026 is shaping up to be a good one.” This statement underscores the significance of the event for the performers themselves.
The cultural importance of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay was emphasized by Culture and Communities Convener Cllr Margaret Graham, who stated, “Our Hogmanay celebration is not just an Edinburgh tradition, we’re known worldwide as the place to be to bring in the bells. It will be wonderful to welcome Wet Leg to the Capital for their Hogmanay debut, performing what I’m sure will be an electrifying set packed with iconic tracks from their chart-topping albums.” Her remarks highlight the festival’s global renown.
Beyond Wet Leg’s headline act, the Concert in the Gardens will also feature the return of a beloved host to guide the proceedings and lead the countdown to 2026. The night will culminate in the world-famous Midnight Fireworks display, launched spectacularly from Edinburgh Castle, a spectacle that draws eyes from across the globe.
Wet Leg’s performance is just one facet of Edinburgh’s extensive four-day Hogmanay celebrations, which commence on December 29th. The festival kicks off with the annual Torchlight Procession, where thousands of participants illuminate the historic streets of Edinburgh, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
The festivities continue on December 30th with the Night Afore Concert in Princes Street Gardens, featuring performances by Peat and Diesel and RuMac. On Hogmanay itself, guests will also have the opportunity to participate in traditional indoor ceilidh events, including the New Year Revels and Bairns New Year Revels, offering diverse ways to celebrate.
The Directors of Unique Assembly, the creators and producers of the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay festival, shared their excitement: “We are thrilled to welcome Wet Leg to headline this year’s Concert in the Gardens. It promises to be a night of incredible music and celebration that will have everyone dancing into 2026. And not forgetting one of the world’s great New Year firework displays from Edinburgh Castle. This is going to be a cracker!” Tickets for all major events, including the Street Party and ceilidhs, are currently on sale, inviting eager attendees to secure their place at this grand celebration.