Torchlight Procession returns to kick off the Hogmanay Celebrations!
We’re thrilled to reveal the return of the spectacular Torchlight Procession to kick off this year’s Hogmanay celebrations! This family-friendly event is back to mark the start of New Year celebrations around the world on Sunday 29 December.
Joining forces with presenting partner EventScotland, a river of fire will weave its way through the capital’s streets, with torches carried in aid of local and national charities. This beloved event and this year will fundraise for four official charity partners: One City Trust, When You Wish Upon A Star, and local charities working to end homelessness, Social Bite and Simon Community Scotland. With £2 from each Torch sold and £1.50 from Procession tickets donated directly to charity, and fundraising activity across both Edinburgh’s Christmas and Hogmanay, we aim to raise over £55,000 throughout the Winter Festivals to be split evenly between the charities.
With up to 20,000 participants blazing a trail through the Old Town of Scotland’s historic Capital, we’ll welcome locals and tourists alike to a carnival atmosphere in the Meadows from 6pm with live street theatre, fire performers, pipe bands and drummers, before the ceremonial Torchlight Procession embarks on its route through the Old Town at 7.30pm, with a fiery finale underneath Edinburgh Castle between 8.30pm - 9pm. Passing famous Edinburgh landmarks including National Museum of Scotland, Greyfriars Kirkyard, the Tolbooth Kirk, the National Library of Scotland and much more, this spectacle is not to be missed!
Returning this year, the procession will be led by Shetland’s South Mainland Up Helly Aa’ Jarl Squad, who previously made history when they appointed the first ever female Jarl.
“Lighting up the heart of the city’s streets, the Torchlight Procession has become a time-honoured tradition of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations, honouring Scotland’s culture, heritage and spirit while setting the stage for four days of New Year’s festivities across our capital city.
“Uniting both locals and visitors from across the world, the event is a key contributor to the wider visitor economy and shines a spotlight on Scotland’s reputation as a world-leading tourism and events destination.” - Rebecca Edser, Head of EventScotland
"I’m delighted to see the Torchlight Procession returning to the streets of Edinburgh this year. It’s a breathtaking sight as thousands make their way through our capital’s historic streets, their torches lighting up the night— it’s a moving symbol of unity and hope for the year ahead. It is also raising vital funds for four wonderful charities. This highlight of the Hogmanay programme is always a favourite among residents and visitors alike, and I have no doubt it will be just as popular this year.” - Councillor Val Walker, City of Edinburgh Council Culture and Communities Convener
“The Torchlight Procession is an incredible event, which is much-loved by both locals and visitors to the city, signalling the start of both Edinburgh’s Hogmanay and the world’s New Year celebrations. We’d like to thank EventScotland for their continued support of the event, and can’t wait to welcome participants to once again light-up the city and help fundraise for this year’s incredible charities.” - Directors of Unique Assembly, who create and produce Edinburgh’s Hogmanay on behalf of the City of Edinburgh Council
“We're thrilled that proceeds from this incredible event will go to One City Trust. Every penny raised brings us one step closer to a fairer, more inclusive city. These funds allow us to support essential initiatives that address poverty, advance equality, and create opportunities for those who need them most – especially those affected by the housing emergency declared in the city." - Lord Provost Robert Aldridge, President of One City Trust