Crowds gathered on Edinburgh’s Calton Hill for the Samhuinn Fire Festival on Halloween.
Described as a “modern re-imagining of an ancient Celtic festival”, organisers say it marks the transition from summer to winter.
The event featured “fire-play”, performance and drumming.
Organisers say it tells the story of winter overthrowing summer, with a “dramatic stand-off” between the Summer and Winter Kings.
Cailleach, a Celtic representation of the Goddess, or Divine Hag, decides the fate of each King and ushers in the coming winter months.
The festival was held at Calton Hill for the first time in 2018 after previously taking place on the Royal Mile.
Here are some pictures capturing the drama and spectacle of Edinburgh’s 2026 Samhuinn.
9. High fire
Organisers say the narrative focuses on resolving seasonal conflict, but also highlights the transition that many aspects of life embark on during the changing of the seasons. | Jane Barlow/Press Association
10. Dark times
The Samhuinn festival welcomes the dark part of the year as Summer gives way to Winter | Jane Barlow/Press Association
11. Fiery exchange
Samhuinn is the counter-balance to the Beltane Fire Festival Festival celebrated annually on April 30 to welcome Summer | Jane Barlow/Press Association
12. Celtic origins
Samhuinn is believed to have Celtic pagan origins and is also celebrated in Ireland as Samhain | Jane Barlow/Press Association