Thousands of revellers descended on Calton Hill to take part in an ancient Celtic tradition on Sunday night, April 30.
Edinburgh’s night sky was lit up for the Beltane Fire Festival, which celebrates the beginning of summer. Hundreds of performers acted out a ritual, which tells the story the ‘May Queen’ and the ‘Green man’, at the yearly event.
Here are 10 dazzling photos of Edinburgh’s Beltane Fire Festival event.
. The May Queen
The May Queen leads a procession of characters up Calton Hill for the 2023 Beltane Fire Festival in Edinburgh. Photo: James Armandary
. National Monument lit up
Thousands gathered to watch as the National Monument on Calton Hill was lit up with blazing torches. Photo: Calum Gordon
1. The May Queen
The May Queen leads a procession of characters up Calton Hill for the 2023 Beltane Fire Festival in Edinburgh. Photo: James Armandary
2. National Monument lit up
Thousands gathered to watch as the National Monument on Calton Hill was lit up with blazing torches. Photo: Calum Gordon
3. Thunderous drumming
Musicians provided a soundtrack to the Edinburgh event with thunderous drumming. Photo: Bleu Hope
4. Playing with fire
A dancer entrances the audience with a huge flaming torch. Fire is an important part of the Gaelic May Day celebration - in ancient times, it was thought to be a purifier and healer. Photo: Simone Riva