This traditonal ceremony commences at the stroke of midnight on Hogmanay (December the 31st).

The fireballs, which are made by the swingers, comprise every kind of combustible and oily waste, held together in a case of wire netting varying in size of a football to one twice as big and weighing up to 20 pounds. These are attached to the end of skilfully wielded ropes and make an impressive sight as over 60 swingers , (who must all reside in the Burgh) march up and down the street from the Mercat Cross to the Police Station, swinging them round their heads to speed the Old Year on its way and to herald in the New.

See a video of the ceremony and discuss this event on the Good things to do » Hogmanay-Stonehaven Fireballs.