Abstract
This paper is based upon a continuous study of the cultural event entitled ‘Edinburgh's Hogmanay' as it has operated since 1996 and, specifically, of the gated and televised late evening spectacle immediately leading up to the turn of each New Year held in and around Princes Street, Edinburgh's main street. The paper is based upon a series of interviews held with current and former members of the planning group for the event, an examination of media coverage between 1996 and 2003, the consideration of other documentary sources such as committee minutes and marketing literature and, finally, personal observations from attendance at the events themselves.

Key Words: Cultural heritage, festivity, authenticity, visitor experience, media coverage

By Malcolm Foley , Gayle McPherson