Edinburgh Castle is the landmark traditionally illuminated by the midnight fireworks display at Edinburgh's Hogmanay celebrations.
Edinburgh's Hogmanay is a large, internationally known New Year's festival centered on the Scottish capital. Its events have included a torchlight procession, concerts, street festivities, and fireworks viewed against the castle, which stands on Castle Rock above the city.
The castle's elevated position makes it a highly visible focal point for the display. The fireworks are part of the public spectacle welcoming January 1, while other Hogmanay customs include singing, visiting friends and family, and first-footing. These traditions are broader than the castle event itself and vary across Scotland.
Edinburgh Castle is sometimes confused with Holyrood Palace because both are major landmarks in Edinburgh. Holyroodhouse lies at the opposite end of the Royal Mile, whereas the castle dominates the skyline above the western end of the historic city center.