Local Hogmanay celebrations on Islay

Hogmanay is a time when residents can get together and wish each other all the best for the new year. Although our celebrations are small, they are welcoming and great fun. People usually meet by the pier in Bowmore, and here we’ll often see some fireworks. On a clear night with the stars shining above us, this is a remarkable experience and one visitors should seek out. 

There is also usually a ceilidh underway nearby – some dancing might even spontaneously appear on the street! 

In Scotland, residents welcome ‘first footers’. This is an ancient tradition where the first person to enter your home in the new year brings good luck and can bring gifts such as shortbread or whisky. Perhaps if you make some friends on the night, you might be lucky enough to be someone’s first footer!

You may also see some bonfires dotted around the island. This is a tradition on Islay and people tend to gather around them, enjoying the heat and each other’s company. A verse of Auld Lang Syne might even be sung, so make sure you know the words!  

Hire Islay Cottages for Hogmanay

If you are looking to enjoy a large celebration with friends and family on Hogmanay, then consider hiring our cottages on the stunning Scottish island of Islay. Whether it’s a small or large group, we can accommodate and give you the best start to a new year imaginable. 

Our largest building is Kilchoman House. This Georgian building was built in 1825 and sleeps up to 12 people. There’s plenty of room for celebrations, including a large southwest-facing sitting room with views out to Creag Mhor. 

There’s also our  Kilchoman cottages available to hire. Each one of our 4 cottages sleep up to four people, with Fieldgate Cottage also able to sleep 6. In total, up to 34 people can sleep between the house and the cottages. Find out more about group accommodation on Islay here. 

Hogmanay on Islay

However you choose to spend Hogmanay on Islay, we hope you have a magnificent time. Remember to book your break with us well in advance. From large gatherings in Kilchoman House and cottages, just remember that Hogmanay is not just about the party, but about the people you are with. Sláinte!

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Christmas is fast approaching, a time for families and friends to unite, celebrate and reflect. We don’t think there’s anywhere better to experience a traditional Scottish Christmas than right here on our beautiful island. There’s a great sense of community and togetherness here as we enter the festive period. And although the weather is getting chilly now, when we all get together to celebrate, Christmastime is truly warm and cosy.

Believe it or not, Christmas is a relatively new celebration for the Scots. It was banned for many years, and it only became an official public holiday in 1958. Before then, Hogmanay (New Year) was our main winter festival, and it’s still hugely popular today. However, we do now welcome Christmas with open arms. And in true Scots style, a good drink is a must to celebrate Christmas with friends and family!

Things to do on Islay this Christmas

There’s always plenty happening on Islay over the festive period. If you’re staying with us this December, look out for local carol services, live music and festive fairs. Not forgetting some fabulous Hogmanay celebrations on New Year’s Eve.

Festive events on the Isle of Islay 2024

Take a look at these fabulous festive events to get you in the Christmas spirit!

Islay distilleries festive shopping

Many of the local distilleries on Islay open for shopping events in the run-up to Christmas, with festive treats and special offers. Check with your favourite distillery to see if they are holding any special events or markets. Please also check directly with the distilleries for their winter opening times over the festive season. The Christmas break can be a busy time for distilleries, so if you are keen to go on a tour of your favourite, it’s best to book in advance. Find out more here.

Other Christmas fairs and events

In addition to the whisky distilleries, Smaller stores and community groups hold Christmas events. These can help promote local businesses or raise money for charity. For example, the Islay High School Christmas fayre is on the 14th December, 10 am – 2 pm. Keep an eye on local listings during your stay to find out more.

Join us at Christmas

On Christmas Day itself, our holiday cottages are the perfect place to get together and enjoy a traditional Scottish Christmas. And why not walk off your Christmas meal with a crisp refreshing stroll on the sandy beaches? Followed swiftly, of course, by a warm dram beside the roaring log fire back at your cottage.

Islay Winter Breaks

To find out more about spending a Scottish Christmas on Islay, take a look at our great Winter Breaks offer or call .

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