Iconic Torchlight Procession returns to ignite Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 30th anniversary celebrations – book now

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay will bring the Torchlight Procession back for this year’s 30th anniversary celebration, blazing a trail on a brand new route through the city’s Old Town before reaching its fiery finale at Edinburgh Castle on Friday 29th December.

Book your torch for the Torchlight Procession. Picture – supplied

The Torchlight Procession will reignite for the first time since 2019, when event-goers can enjoy a host of entertainment from live street theatre and fire performers to pipe bands and drummers.

Start Hogmanay early and join the Torchlight Procession evening from 6pm on Friday 29th December. The event will shine a light on homelessness by helping to raise funds for Social Bite projects across Edinburgh and Scotland.

Thousands of torch carriers will set off on the new route up Middle Meadow Walk, crossing George IV Bridge and make their way along Johnston Terrace before reaching a picturesque finishing point on Castle Terrace beneath Edinburgh Castle. 

Follow the new Torchlight Procession route and shine a light on homelessness. Picture – supplied

Leading the procession through Edinburgh’s historic Old Town will be Shetland’s South Mainland Up Helly Aa’ Jarl Squad, who previously made history when they appointed their first ever female Jarl. 

New route and timings for fun family event

For the first time at the family-friendly event, performers from Edinburgh’s Beltane Society will delight crowds in the Meadows at the start of the event. The fun entertainment begins at 6pm, with the Torchlight Procession moving off on its journey through the capital at 7.30pm. It will reach Edinburgh Castle Terrace at 8.30 - 9pm. 

Marking the start of New Year celebrations around the world, the Torchlight Procession has become one of Edinburgh Hogmanay’s most iconic events. Organisers are proud to join forces with acclaimed local homelessness charity Social Bite this year, in order to raise vital funds to help those most in need this winter. 

Enjoy family entertainment, from live street theatre and fire performers to pipe bands and drummers. Picture – supplied

Tickets and torches

Helping to reach their fundraising target, £2 from every torch sold and £1.50 from each procession ticket will be donated directly to the charity. 

Tickets are available at £20 per torch (which includes the charity donation and fees). Additional procession wristbands, at £7.50 (includes £1.50 charity donation and fees) are also available when purchasing alongside a torch.

Don’t miss the return of this spectacular event with Edinburgh’s Hogmanay and presenting partner EventScotland! For tickets and details visit www.edinburghshogmanay.com