Join hundreds of performers and thousands of revellers as they come together on Calton Hill to celebrate the death of winter and the birth of summer by casting off the darkness and celebrating the light on one of the most magical nights of the year. The Beltane spectacle is a celebration of the elemental story of death and re-birth and the eternal battle of the seasons, as played out with fire, drums, pyrotechnics and a procession. A modern interpretation of the ancient fertility festival, the Beltane is the only festival of its kind in the world. Pulsating drums are the heartbeat of this fully immersive, investigative theatre, in a dramatic outdoor setting and with no physical curtains or barriers. Come face-to-face with the colourful characters as they make their way around the hill, or step back and marvel at the scale of a production brought together in only two months by around 300 dedicated volunteers.

Edinburgh's spectacular Winter celebration returns with a live parade to celebrate the ancient ritual of Samhuinn, putting a fiery twist on Halloween night. Hosted by Beltane Fire Society, the Samhuinn Fire Parade celebrates the Celtic New Year, marking the end of summer and welcoming the onset of winter. Witness the transition between the seasons of summer and winter up close, brought to life by a mix of fire, drumming, acrobatics, and immersive theatre. Details will be released to those who have registered in advance. THE STORY SO FAR… When the Summer King first emerged from his slumber, he meant to celebrate the start of his reign with a magnificent feast - but nobody came. Now, too soon for his liking, he must draw his short season to a close and pass the mantle to the Winter King. Sensing his reluctance, the mysterious crone goddess known as the Cailleach arrives. Under her watchful gaze, the turn of the year's wheel must be preserved. But not everything has to be gloomy. The Winter King is keen to remind us of the good things about Winter - the cosy hearths, the hot chocolates and the fireside stories. Photograph credit: Copyright Dan Mosley for Beltane Fire Society. All Rights Reserved