Edinburgh's Torchlight Procession
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Edinburgh's Torchlight Procession

Embark on a breathtaking journey through Edinburgh's historic Old Town with the traditional Torchlight Procession. This iconic event, a highlight of Edinburgh's Hogmanay, transforms the city into a mesmerizing river of fire as participants carry torches through the ancient streets. It's a powerful and unforgettable way to usher in the New Year, steeped in tradition and vibrant celebration.

What to Expect

Historic Torchlight Procession through Old Town

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $$ โ€“ Get tickets
  • Pets: No pets allowed

Other Christmas Events Near Edinburgh

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ โšช (4/5)

Best For

New year's eve celebrations, cultural experiences, iconic city events

Vibe

Festive, traditional, energetic, historic

Energy Level

High

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

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Tags

holiday traditioncommunity celebrationfestive atmospherewinter activitiesfamily friendlyseasonal activitiesNew Years Evefireworksstreet foodlive music

Location

Edinburgh Old Town
Edinburgh

Event Details

Duration

Evening event

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Old Town

Timed Entry

No

Featured Performers

  • Wet Leg
  • Hamish Hawk
  • Lucia & The Best Boys
  • Peat & Diesel
  • RuMac

Organizer

Unique Assembly Ltd.

Food & Drink

Food and drink vendors available during festival events

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Book your tickets well in advance, as Edinburgh's Hogmanay events, including the Torchlight Procession, are extremely popular and sell out quickly.
  • Dress warmly and wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for walking on historic cobblestone streets, as the procession can involve significant walking.
  • Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the Torchlight Procession, especially if you want to be close to the action or have children with you.
  • Check the official event schedule for the exact starting point and route of the Torchlight Procession, as it can vary and may involve public transport to reach the assembly area.
  • Be prepared for large crowds and potential road closures in the city center; familiarize yourself with public transport options or walking routes to and from the event.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Torchlight Procession?

The Torchlight Procession is a traditional event where thousands of participants carry torches through Edinburgh's historic Old Town, creating a spectacular 'river of fire' as part of the Hogmanay celebrations.

When does the Torchlight Procession take place?

The Torchlight Procession typically occurs on December 29th as part of the wider Edinburgh's Hogmanay festival.

Do I need tickets for the Torchlight Procession?

Yes, tickets are usually required for the Torchlight Procession and often include a torch. It's advisable to purchase them in advance as they can sell out.

What is the route of the Torchlight Procession?

The procession usually starts at George IV Bridge and winds its way through the historic Old Town, culminating in a spectacular finale. The exact route is confirmed closer to the event.

Is the Torchlight Procession suitable for families?

Yes, the Torchlight Procession is generally considered a family-friendly event, though it can be crowded. Children should be supervised closely, and it's recommended to arrive early for better viewing.

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 30, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team

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