Edinburgh celebrates 900th anniversary with spectacular Castle of Light show

Royal Mile Primary School
-Credit: (Image: Rob McDougall)


Edinburgh's Castle of Light kicked off with an extravagent display this year as the city celebrates its 900th anniversary.

Pupils from the local Royal Mile Primary School joined Rex the lion on the esplanade to officially switch on this year’s event for its seven-week run.

Castle of Light, now in its fifth year, pulled out all the stops with an immersive after-dark trail, transforming the historic castle grounds with all-new light and sound displays celebrating 900 years of history and setting the festive season ablaze.

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Featuring mythical creatures and long-lost tales, visitors to the city revealed in the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of some of Scotland’s most famous figures before dancing through the ages in Edinburgh's Crown Square.

The creators are also taking the opportunity to shine a spotlight on the lesser-known stories of Edinburgh’s trailblazing women this year, inspired by Edinburgh author, Sara Sheridan’s book ‘Where are the Women?’.

Illuminating the Lava Wall with stories of the tenacious women that history forgot, punters came face to face with figures spanning the 12th to the 21st century, including Scots science pioneer Mary Sommerville, explorer, naturalist and photographer Isabella Bird, and Sophia Jex-Blake, one the ‘Edinburgh Seven’, with Sara joining the team on opening night to see her writing come to life on the Castle walls.

Emma Bowie, regional visitor & community manager at Edinburgh Castle, said: "Castle of Light has truly become a jewel in Edinburgh's bustling winter schedule, and this year’s celebration is particularly special as we mark the city’s 900th anniversary.

Castle of Light.
Castle of Light in Edinburgh. -Credit:Supplied

“This year’s event is all about bringing people together to revel in the capital’s incredible history as it comes to life on the castle walls. From uncovering the inspiring stories of Edinburgh’s trailblazing women to soaking in the vibrant energy in Crown Square, Castle of Light showcases the incredible depth of Scotland’s past while creating unforgettable memories for the present. It’s a spectacular way to celebrate this milestone year with family and friends this festive season."

Castle of Light will run for seven weeks throughout the festive season, on select dates until Saturday January, 4 2025, with special access night will also taking place on Sunday December, 8. Ticketed entry slots will run every 15 minutes between 4.30pm and 7.30pm each evening, with last entry between 7.30pm and 7.45pm. The event closes at 9pm.

For more information and to get your tickets, visit www.CastleofLight.scot. Advance booking required. Concession rates, family tickets and discounts for Historic Scotland members are also available.

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