Edinburgh’s iconic Hogmanay celebrations faced significant controversy this year after the highly anticipated fireworks display was abruptly cancelled due to adverse weather conditions. The decision left many attendees, particularly international tourists, disappointed as they traveled long distances to partake in the festivities.
A couple of Australian tourists, Kaleb Bowering and his partner, embarked on their trip all the way from Adelaide, Australia. After investing significant time and money—around AUD 3,000 (approximately £1,500) on accommodation—they arrived filled with excitement to witness the famous New Year fireworks. "We always wanted to come to Edinburgh to catch up with some family. We saw lots of TikToks for 2024 New Years so we had to come," said Bowering, regretfully expressing their feelings after learning of the cancellation.
The couple was particularly disheartened as they anticipated the fireworks display, which Bowering claimed "definitely beats anything we get in Adelaide." Instead, the international visitors experienced street celebrations filled with makeshift fireworks produced by residents and local revelers, providing them with some semblance of the festival spirit they sought.
Despite parts of the celebration occurring around them, the couple expressed dissatisfaction. Bowering shared, "After receiving a fine for our carpark and then getting the news of the Hogmanay being cancelled, we were very upset. It has taken a lot of money and time to be here, and to miss it was heartbreaking." They watched as others lit firecrackers, wishing they could have enjoyed the full spectacle the event is known for.
The city council’s decision to cancel this year's display was linked not only to weather concerns but also growing pressures surrounding animal welfare issues. The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland highlighted the direct impact of fireworks on animals, citing the unfortunate deaths of two red pandas at the Edinburgh Zoo, attributed to the stress caused by firework explosions. These events have accelerated discussions on the viability of continuing traditional aerial fireworks.
City of Edinburgh Council Leader Jane Meagher has expressed interest in exploring alternative celebrations for future events. She referred to her experiences attending various festivities during Bonfire Night which utilized innovative alternatives to fireworks. "I would want to be looking at alternatives because I think the days when we send explosives up... are short lived," Meagher stated, highlighting her vision for Edinburgh to lead the charge toward more animal-friendly and environmentally conscious celebrations.
Many community members and organizations echoed Meagher’s sentiments. The charity People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) voiced strong support for moving away from explosions during celebrations, stating, "The loud bangs... confuse and terrify wildlife and companion animals, putting them at risk of injury, displacement, and death." PETA has seen positive responses from the public, noting, "Yet over 90% of Brits would gladly be dazzled by laser shows, drones, or silent fireworks out of consideration for others."
The changing sentiment around fireworks has also triggered serious discourse surrounding urban noise pollution and its psychological effects on residents, particularly those who suffer from PTSD or noise sensitivity. This broad aversion was accentuated during the New Year’s Eve celebrations when the cancellations became necessary.
Event organizers, such as Titanium Fireworks, whose team has historically created Edinburgh's Hogmanay display, acknowledged the industry challenges due to growing concerns about the impact of fireworks not only on animals but also on community wellbeing. Director Will Evans confirmed, "We will always advocate for the strict use of fireworks, sensibly, in the right place at the right time."
Local authorities are anticipated to consult with experts and engage the public to gauge interest for alternatives, marking the beginning of discussions to transition away from traditional without sacrificing the celebrations' grandeur. Meagher emphasized, "These sorts of changes have to be done incrementally but I think there is sufficient public interest... We could be trailblazers.”
For many attendees, including those like Bowering, it was not just about the fireworks, but the overall experience of being part of an event steeped in tradition and cultural significance. The disappointment of this year's cancellation may have cast shadows on their experience, but it also shines light on the potential for crafting new traditions—ones more inclusive and considerate of Edinburgh's diverse community.
While the outcome of the events for Hogmanay 2024 was far from the festive explosions anticipated, it poses questions about how cities like Edinburgh can honor their traditions with respect and awareness for all who share the urban environment.