Taking place on 30 April, the Beltane Fire Festival is an evening of arts, culture, performance and, of course, fire.
Held on Calton Hill in Edinburgh, the Beltane Fire Festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. The festival started in 1988 as a word-of-mouth event, and now sees more than 12,000 revellers descend on Calton Hill every year.
The festival is steeped in tradition, based on the Scottish and Gaelic pre-Christian festival of the same name – held to celebrate the start of summer.
These days, the Beltane Fire Festival has kept its traditional customs and added some modern flair. This year’s event will see drummers, reggae musicians and DJs perform at the legendary after party.
The big draw for most people is the procession around Calton Hill. Fire artists and performers from around the world will take part in incredible displays, before a fire is eventually lit on the Parthenon which is used to light smaller fires around the hill.
“We can’t wait to celebrate the 25th anniversary of this magical event with the people of Edinburgh and beyond,” said Matthew Richardson, chair of Beltane Fire Society, which organises the festival.
“Beltane has grown from strength to strength year upon year, and this year we’ve really exceeded all expectations in realising the Festival’s true potential.”
The Beltane Fire Festival is one that has to be seen to be believed. For just £5 entry (plus booking fee), it is something of a bargain – so book your ticket and prepare to be dazzled.
(Images: Beltane Fire Festival)
