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Coronavirus pandemic
image copyrightBelly
The Edinburgh Christmas festivals for 2020 were canceled due to the Covid-19 outbreak.
Edinburgh City Council and the producers of Underbelly events said the decision followed the “latest advice” from public health experts.
Any event that can draw a gathering or crowd, including market stalls and attractions, will not happen now.
The council said the focus will shift to celebrating Edinburgh Christmas online this year.
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street party was called off in July due to the pandemic, but organizers hoped other controlled-access events could be held to ensure social distancing.
However, the council said it was now clear that the “best place” to experience Edinburgh and Hogmanay Christmas would be from home.
Covid-19 cases are on the rise across Scotland and new measures designed to halt the rise came into effect on September 22, including a 10 p.m. curfew for bars and restaurants.
Adam McVey, Head of Edinburgh City Council, said: “While we understand that the absence of popular events will bring some disappointment, we want to make it clear that Edinburgh Christmas is not canceled and that our businesses across the city will deliver their usual festive cheer to that we take advantage.
“We look forward to announcing the details of an innovative 2020 digital program to aid these celebrations soon.”
‘Sad decision’
Events in Edinburgh during Christmas and New Years have traditionally included markets, fairground attractions and a fire parade that kicks off the city’s Hogmanay festival.
The city would also have held its 28th party on Hogmanay Street, which has had a capacity of 75,000 people in recent years.
Charlie Wood, Director of Underbelly, said: “We wanted to bring some joy and festive light to Edinburgh this Christmas and support local manufacturers and producers, at the end of what has been a challenging year for everyone.
“Public health is our absolute number one priority, and with the constant uncertainty about Covid-19 and the possibility of further restrictions, we have made the collective and very sad decision with the council, NHS Lothian and the Scottish government not to proceed with this. year Edinburgh Christmas sites in the city center.
“There will be no public events that can encourage gatherings of people at Edinburgh Christmas or Edinburgh Hogmanay.”
