Beltane Fire Festival

The Beltane Fire Festival is a colourful and vibrant annual event held during the night of 30th April 2012 on Calton Hill in Edinburgh. Around 12 thousand people come to enjoy the spectacular procession. The festival combines drums, theatre and fire to welcome the arrival of summer season and it has become a very popular event.

The festival encourages those who come to watch to join in with the drama and music, which is performed by volunteers who draw on a wide variety of historical, mythological and literary influences to create the awesome atmosphere and visionary splendor! The pagan festival is inspired by the Gaelic festival of Beltane which historically was held on May eve and marked the blossoming of spring.

The festival as it is today is the brainchild of a small group of enthusiasts in 1988 with the help of Edinburgh University. The festival has continued to grow with over 300 performers taking part in last years festival. The main focus of the festival is a procession of torchbearers around Calton Hill. Starting at about 10pm and continuing into the night until about midnight, spectators follow the procession as it travels around the hill.

The festival is popular with locals and tourists alike and is well worth a visit. Search for Beltane Fire Festival Accommodation here and find the best property for you!