Thousands of people line streets as Eilish McColgan leads second annual Edinburgh Tartan Parade

Thousands of revellers lined the streets of Edinburgh on Saturday afternoon (May 9) as the second annual Edinburgh Tartan Parade took place.

Commonwealth long-distance champion runner Eilish McColgan was this year’ Grand Marshall, leading 2,500 people through the Old Town in a major celebration of Scottish culture.

Decked out in the finest tartan, participants ranged from bands and musicians to dancers and clans from across the country.

McColgan said: “It was a real honour to be Grand Marshal for the Tartan Parade. Scotland is such a huge part of who I am, so to represent that on a global stage like this felt very special. I think what drew me to it most was the chance to celebrate Scottish culture in a positive way and bring everyone together.

She added: “I’ve always had a real soft spot for tartan. It just instantly feels like home. Being abroad, traveling from country to country for over 11 months of the year makes me miss home a lot! I always try to race in a little bit of tartan to remind me of family and home. My nails, my shoes, my hairband or bobble! Something small but it means a lot to me.”

Lord Provost Robert Aldridge also took part in leading the huge parade down the Royal Mile and onto East Princes Street Gardens, with stars such as Grant Stott and Gail Porter also on hand to welcome participants along the route.

Lord Provost Robert Aldridge said: “It is a real honour and privilege, as Lord Provost, to support events that bring people together to celebrate our shared heritage, culture, and values. The Tartan Parade is a fantastic occasion that not only showcases our rich traditions, but also the strong spirit of inclusivity and community that make our city so special.”

Stay ahead of what’s happening in the Capital – get Edinburgh’s top news stories, sport, culture and what’s on in our daily email briefing

Organisers of the volunteer-led event described the turnout for this year’s parade as “phenomenal”.

Tania Pramschufer, founder of Tartan Parade Scotland and World Fair Trade Tartan said: “The parade was a huge success last year and this year, it was even bigger.

“We were thrilled to see so many people come and take part in the parade. The turnout was phenomenal.”

“The parade is going to be an annual mainstay in Edinburgh’s cultural calendar and next year it’s going to be extended to a few days for a festival. That’s a dream come true for me.”