The Capital’s world-famous Hogmanay street party was at its peak.
A free event in those days, celebrations that year were recognised by the Guinness Book of Records at the world's largest New Year party, with approximately 400,000 people in attendance.
A young Stephen Hendry was in his pomp. The snooker pro, from South Queensferry, received the Evening News’ sports personality of the year award in 1996, which surely takes equal pride of place alongside the seven World Snooker Championship titles on his mantelpiece.
Scroll through our picture gallery, and be taken back to 1996.
9. Storm damage
There were heavy storms in November 1996, resulting in trees being damaged on London Road. Photo: JR
10. Alex Salmond
Alex Salmond, the leader of the Scottish National Party in Edinburgh's Charlotte Square in 1996. Photo: Hamish Campbell
11. Fibber Magees pub
Fibber Magees won the Evening News Pub of the year in 1996. Bar person Katherline Guthrie is pictured pulling a pint. Photo: JULIE BULL
12. New signings
Hearts players L TO R Jeremy Goss, Neil McCann and David Weir. New signings in 1996. Photo: DENIS STRAUGHAN