Scotland’s tourism sector is vibrant all year round. From spring through summer and well into autumn our mountains, glens, lochs and shorelines offer a beautiful, natural playground for visitors from all over the planet.
During the Christmas and Hogmanay holiday season, however, we really do like to give it our all – whatever the weather.
This means we need an army of helpers from chefs and cooks to hotel receptionists and bar staff.
Which is great news if you’re looking to join the people-friendly professionals whose mission it is help make Scotland a welcoming place at this special time of year.
Whether you’re seeking a role in catering or hospitality, getting into the festive spirit is vital not only for clinching that interview but also doing a great job.
So here are five festive traditions, from Scotland and around the world, to help inspire and motivate you.
- A capital idea
The most famous New Year celebrations on the planet happen in Edinburgh, where the traditional street party attracts 75,000 revelers every year. This year a spectacular laser and light show will be beamed from Edinburgh Castle to welcome 2017 as part of the Hogmanay Midnight Moment. It’s a shining example for anyone seeking a career in hospitality.
- Ice, ice, baby
Where else but in the town of North Pole, 14 miles south of Fairbanks in Alaska, could Christmas in Ice, the world’s biggest ice sculpting festival, take place? Every year, more than two million pounds of ice are transformed into works of art. Surely the coolest gig for any events manager?
- Wet, wet, wet
The Loony Dook – yes, aka ‘the lunatic dip’ – takes place on the first day of every New Year. As the battle cry of bagpipes fills the cold morning air, hundreds of blue-skinned loonies hurl themselves into the Firth of Forth at South Queensferry. Why? Because they can. Bar managers, be prepared: hot mulled wine all round please!
- The big countdown
New York is a mecca for festive fans and every year thousands congregate to witness the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square. It’s the neon-lit countdown to the start of serious revelry in the city that never sleeps. Remember to tell your hotel receptionist you want breakfast in bed. At lunchtime.
- Great balls of fire!
Once thought to be a way of warding off witches, the annual Stonehaven Fireballs Festival is now an eye-opening tourist attraction. What better way to celebrate Hogmanay than by swinging blazing fireballs above our heads?
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