The fireworks are the highlight of the Hogmanay celebrations

The massive Princes Street party is expected to attract approximately 100,000 people from around the globe.

Music and entertainment will be spread over four stages and will culminate in the famous fireworks display.

The free tickets will be available in person from the box office, over the phone or on the internet. They are limited to four per booking.

The city's Lord Provost, Lesley Hinds, urged those who were keen to join in the celebrations to be quick if they wanted to get passes for the party in Princes Street.

There's nothing anywhere in the world like the atmosphere, setting and euphoria Peter Irvine Unique Events

She said: "There is something really quite unique about the Royal Bank Street Party with 100,000 partygoers from all over the world welcoming the new year with music, dancing, hugs and kisses, all set against the magnificent backdrop of the castle.

"We anticipate that this allocation will be popular with residents and visitors so we advise people to act quickly as passes will be snapped up fast."

Organisers will announce the line-up for the night in November.

Varied events

Unique Events puts on the Hogmanay celebrations for Edinburgh City Council and director Peter Irvine described them as the "best in the world".

He added: "There's nothing anywhere in the world like the atmosphere, setting and euphoria that is The Royal Bank of Scotland Street Party."