HOGMANAY IS A HIGHLIGHT OF DORNOCH’S YEAR 

THE Hogmanay celebrations in Dornoch are a highlight on the town’s annual calendar. 

It’s an event embraced by Royal Dornoch Golf Club. 

Traditionally, the clubhouse hosts a dinner earlier in the evening, with members and guests then heading for the town centre gathering. 

While locally based members are to be seen among revellers, visitors from around the world are also welcome to enjoy the flavour of a renowned Scottish celebration. 

General manager Neil Hampton said: “While we can’t always guarantee ideal golfing weather at that time of year, we usually see some members out on the links during the day and we can certainly guarantee a warm welcome to the Hogmanay Street Party organised under the umbrella of the Dornoch and District Community Association. 

“It began to mark the Millennium and its popularity has made it an eagerly anticipated annual event. 

“It was great to see it return after an enforced two-year break because of the pandemic. 

“I know the organising committee are already mapping out plans for this year’s event.” 

More than 2000 people thronged The Square on December 31 to enjoy live music – including a pipe band and lone piper Magnus Orr braving the rooftop of The Castle Hotel – food and a drink to see out the old year and bring in the new in traditional Highland style. 

This year’s event will cost around £7000 and street party coordinator Lou Rollason is hoping the business community again rallies round. 

“We are grateful to the Royal Dornoch Golf Club for their support and it’s always nice to welcome members and friends from near and far to the celebrations.  

“The organising committee are now working up plans for the town’s 2023 Hogmanay Street Party and starting to build the kitty so we can do Dornoch proud again,” she said.

Donations towards this year’s Hogmanay Street Party can be made at:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/dornochhogmanay.

Photo credit: Andy Kirby