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.
1. Traffic chaos in Edinburgh
Heavy traffic and diversions were not a new thing in Edinburgh in 1996. Photo: UNKNOWN
2. Festival Cavalcade
Big crowds turned out to see the 1996 Festival Cavalcade. Photo: DENIS STRAUGHAN
3. EIS demo
The 1996 Educational Institue of Scotland march saw teachers, pupils and parents come together to demonstrate over cuts in education. Photo: BILL HENRY
4. Hogmanay Funfair
Edinburgh Hogmanay Fun Fair in Waterloo Place, 1996. Photo: DENIS STRAUGHEN