Communities in Sutherland set to welcome in the New Year with parties, fireworks and a torchlight procession
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Sutherland is set to welcome in the New Year with a host of events planned including open-air parties, fireworks displays and a torchlight procession.
The three East Sutherland communities of Dornoch, Golspie and Brora are all holding community events.
Dornoch is ready to build on the success of last year’s Hogmanay street party after the pandemic put the celebrations on hold for the past two years.
The hugely popular event kicks off at around 10pm on Sunday, December 31, with live music and once again the Hogmanay Pipe Band and a ceilidh band will entertain the crowd.
A lone piper will take to the battlements of the Dornoch Castle Hotel to usher in 2024 with a spectacular fireworks display.
The event is being organised by Dornoch and District Community Association (DADCA) who have been fundraising to cover the £8,000 costs. A Dornoch Hogmanay Street Party JustGiving page has been set up and a raffle is being held.
Lou Rollanson, of DADCA, said: “The organising committee has been working on the programme for months and now the countdown is in full swing.”
Throughout the weekend there will also be a variety of events taking place at the cathedral and elsewhere in the town, including First Foot breakfasts and whisky tasting.
The Loony Dook will also be returning to Dornoch under the auspices of East Sutherland Rescue Association (ESRA), who provide safety cover.
Those brave enough to take part or just want to watch, are invited to meet at Dornoch Beach carpark at 11.15am for the start at 11.30pm.
Organisers warn that the water and climate are very cold at this time of the year and that Loony Dookers enter the sea at their own risk. No unaccompanied children under 16 years. Warm refreshments will be provided and donations to charity in card or cash will be appreciated.
Golspie Rowing Club is once again organising a community torchlight parade in the village to mark the start of 2024.
The club has issued an open invitation for everyone to take part in the event which starts at 6pm on Monday, January 1.
People are asked to gather in the car park of the former council offices, opposite the Bank of Scotland. Torches will be provided.
The event is free to attend but donations are welcome to support the rowing club’s projects and future community events.
The parade will follow a route along the seafront, ending at Golspie pier where there will be a bonfire with mulled wine and mince pies.
A club spokesperson said: “The New Year’s Day Torchlight Parade is a delightful celebration of unity and community spirit, showcasing the vibrant energy of Golspie as we welcome the New Year together.”
Go Golspie Development Trust is inviting local people to join them following the torchlight parade for an “open house” at the newly refurbished YMCA on the village’s Main Street. Doors open 7.30pm. There will be live music, stovies and soup.
The Friends of Clyne War Memorial Association will hold their annual community wreath laying ceremony at 4.30pm on New Year’s Day and all members of the community are invited to attend.
After the ceremony piper Danny Parkin will lead everyone down to the harbour for the village’s annual bonfire and fireworks display which begins at 5pm. There are viewing points from both sides of the river and the display lasts for around 15 minutes.
Organisers are asking people to ensure that their animals and pets are secure.
