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.
17. Goodbye Goldbergs
It was goodbye to legendary Tollcross department store Goldbergs, which was demolished in 1996. Photo: UNKNOWN
18. Janitors' strike
Schools in Edinburgh closed in winter 1996 as janitors staged a wildcat strike outside the City Chambers. Photo: TINA NORRIS
20. Kevin Harper scores
Kevin Harper scores Hibs first goal against Dundee United at Easter Road in 1996. Photo: Jeremy Stockton