Tens of thousands watch as fireworks bring Festival to close

More than 100,000 fireworks were used during the 45-minute concert, accompanied by a performance from the Scottish Chamber Orchestra. Tens of thousands of spectators turned up at Princes Street Gardens and other vantage points throughout the city as the Virgin Money Fireworks Concert provided the festival finale. The Edinburgh International Festival took £2.83 million at the box office, an increase of nine per cent in sales income, making it a record year.

Jonathan Mills, director of the EIF, said: “We have had a fantastic month. All of the festivals together have made a great contribution yet again to the reputation of Edinburgh, the enjoyment that Edinburgh citizens have and the welcoming of many people from all over the world.”

It takes a team of 15 pyrotechnicians seven days to lay out the fireworks on 17 different levels of the castle, from the ramparts to the top of the Castle Rock. Highlights included an opening volley, three 200ft-high rippling red comet stars rolling across the sky, and a “waterfall” feature which consists of 70 firing units laid out for 118ft across the castle. Lasting one minute, the display descends 131ft down the Castle Rock.

Councillor Steve Cardownie said: “The traditional firework display, along with superb musical performances, is a fantastic way to close yet another successful Festival.”