Samhuinn Fire Festival

Edinburgh's spectacular Winter celebration returns with a live parade to celebrate the ancient ritual of Samhuinn, putting a fiery twist on Halloween night.

Hosted by Beltane Fire Society, the Samhuinn Fire Parade celebrates the Celtic New Year, marking the end of summer and welcoming the onset of winter.

Witness the transition between the seasons of summer and winter up close, brought to life by a mix of fire, drumming, acrobatics, and immersive theatre. Details will be released to those who have registered in advance.

THE STORY SO FAR… When the Summer King first emerged from his slumber, he meant to celebrate the start of his reign with a magnificent feast - but nobody came. Now, too soon for his liking, he must draw his short season to a close and pass the mantle to the Winter King.

Sensing his reluctance, the mysterious crone goddess known as the Cailleach arrives. Under her watchful gaze, the turn of the year's wheel must be preserved.

But not everything has to be gloomy. The Winter King is keen to remind us of the good things about Winter - the cosy hearths, the hot chocolates and the fireside stories.

Photograph credit: Copyright Dan Mosley for Beltane Fire Society. All Rights Reserved