Edinburgh's spectacular Samhuinn fire festival returns this Halloween

FLAMES will dance above the city skyline again on 31 October when the Samhuinn Fire Festival 2019 glows into life atop the Calton Hill.
Fire FestivalFire Festival
Fire Festival

The Capital’s fiery Winter festival returns once more with a unique take on Hallowe’en, bringing the Celtic New Year to a modern audience through an outdoor programme of fire, drumming, acrobatics and immersive theatre.

Be there to witness the hundreds of otherworldly creatures awaken on the Calton Hill and gather for an epic struggle between Winter and Summer.

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Watch as the action unfolds and the battle between the Winter King and the Summer King commences before the mysterious Cailleach emerges to decide each of their fates.

All this will be acted out at the top of Calton Hill, entrance to the event is from Regent Road, by Waterloo Place. Gates open at 7pm with the last entry being at 10pm.

As performers enter from both sides of the Calton Hill, you should decide whether you side with the forces of Winter or follow the Summer King - you could also hedge your bets and flit about to enjoy the best of both. As it is an outdoor event, dress for the weather. The action unfolds on the Hill and care should be taken when moving around as pathways are uneven and can become slippy should it rains.

Those of a nervous disposition should note that there will be loud drumming and flashing lights in the form of pyrotechnics and flash photography. Costumed performers will also be mingling, in character, throughout the crowd and there will be some partial nudity.

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A family friendly event, nonetheless, children aged 5 and under get free admission. Always a highlight of the Capital’s Hallowe’en celebrations Samhuinn often sells out, although there will be a limited number of tickets to buy on the gate.

Adult tickets cost £8 in advance/ £10 on the day. Children’s tickets £4 in advance/ £5 on the day/Limited low income tickets £3. All tickets can be purchased from www.citizenticket.co.uk/event/samhuinn-fire-festival/

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