Scotland’s winter festivals

Everyone who spends time in Scotland over the winter months soon realises that we don’t let the darker nights stop us from enjoying ourselves. In fact, the country comes alive as ceremonies, traditions and festivals all take place to celebrate our history and culture. If you are looking to enjoy Scotland’s winter festivals, then make sure you book your stay at the luxury 5-star hotel Ness Walk in Inverness to make the most of this magical time.

Samhain (October 31 – November 1)

Samhain is pronounced “Sow-in” and is an ancient Celtic festival marking the feast of the dead. It marks a time when the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead is believed to be thin. Samhain is actually held on the 1st November, but celebrations began the night before. Today, most people know this festival as Halloween and it shares many similarities. For example, a common custom until recently was ‘guising’. This is when people would dress up and go from house to house for food, usually singing or reciting a verse in exchange.

St. Andrew’s Day (November 30)

St. Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland, and we celebrate this on the 30th November. Celebrations include traditional Scottish meals like haggis, dancing at a ceilidh and enjoying a dram or two of whisky. Visit our Torrish Restaurant to discover what culinary delights our chef has prepared for St. Andrew’s Day this year.

Hogmanay (December 31 – January 1)

New Year’s Eve in Scotland is known as Hogmanay. It is one of the biggest nights in Scotland’s celebration calendar. It is rooted in ancient winter solstice customs and Viking influences, combining singing, dancing, good food and great drink. Join us at Ness Walk this Hogmanay for a night of Scottish celebrations including a 6-course gastronomic menu. We’ll also have lively band ‘The Big Shoogle’ to help everyone enjoy a magical experience. Find out more about our Hogmanay experience here.

Burns Night (January 25)

Burns Night celebrates Robert Burns, Scotland’s national – and some say greatest – poet. His work has lasted for generations, celebrating everything from love to nature and food. Burns Night includes a traditional supper of haggis, neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes). Make sure you look at the menu of our Torrish Restaurant around this time of year to taste our chef’s take on this Scottish celebration.

Celebrating winter at Ness Walk

Just because it’s dark outside doesn’t mean the celebrations stop in the Highlands. It is one of the best times of the year to visit, especially if you are looking forward to enjoying a dram by a warm fire. To enjoy Scotland’s winter festivals and the best Inverness has to offer during the colder months, book your luxury holiday at Ness Walk.