Local support will be crucial if Kirkcaldy is to emerge as a Hogmanay party destination, say community leaders.
Town councillor Neil Crooks said an ambitious three-day “Twixmas” festival in the Square was being planned in response to requests from the public – and making a success of this first event was now critical.
The Courier revealed on Saturday that a host of family-friendly events and live music would take place in a purpose-built marquee outside the Town House.
It will be the first public Hogmanay event in the town for a generation and Mr Crooks, convener of Fife Council’s Kirkcaldy area committee, said he hoped the efforts of organisers would be rewarded by a big turnout.
“It is something that people have been wanting for a long time,” he said.
“I would like to see it become a permanent fixture but we will see when the numbers come in if it has traction.
“There has been a lot of noise made with people calling for an event so now that we have gone to the extent of putting one on I’m hoping that people turn out for it.”
Festivities will take place during the daytime and evening, beginning on Friday December 29 with family-oriented events including arts and craft sessions, baking, a mini zoo, and visits from Peppa Pig and Kenny the Clown.
A ceilidh, priced £5 for the family, will take place in the evening before a day of live music on Saturday December 30, headlined by Kyle Falconer, lead singer of Dundee band the View.
Sunday’s Hogmanay celebrations will feature performances by Kirkcaldy and District Pipe Band and popular live act the Columbos, with tickets priced £12 per person.
The organisation has been led by Kirkcaldy YMCA and the Linton Lane Centre, using experience gained through previous events hosted in the Town Square marquee, including the successful Bavarian Beer Festival.
Councillor Carol Lindsay said: “It’s great to see the return of Hogmanay celebrations in our Town Square after a long absence.
“It’s great to be part of something meaningful for the town.”
Tickets are available from Kirkcaldy YMCA, Kittys, the Linton Lane Centre and online at www.skiddle.com.