Hogmanay's Torchlight Procession

That evening, I was ready to head to the torchlight procession. Last year’s event welcomed over 35,000 people to this world renowned family event. Thousands of torch carriers illuminate the city through the city center to a spectacular Son et Lumière and fireworks finale. Led by Shetland’s Up Helly Aa’ Vikings and the massed pipes and drums.

I had paid for two torches ahead of time just in case someone wanted to join me.  When it was clear I was going to be alone in the procession, I gave my extra ticket to some random girl.  She was very happy.

Waiting in the queue for the torches to be lit.  You can see then starting up in the distance.

If buses could talk, I guess they'd wish us a Happy new Year.

The procession begins as we cross the first intersection.

So many torches, so many selfies.  I have no idea how no one got burned.

The torchlight procession with a little Pet Shop Boys music pumping me up for tomorrow night!

 

Heading up Calton Hill for the fireworks.

The Scottish National Monument on the top of Calton Hill   This monument was intended to be another Parthenon and to commemorate Scottish Soldiers killed in the Napoleonic Wars. Construction started in 1826 but work was stopped in 1829 when the building was only partially built due to lack of money. It has never been completed. For many years this failure to complete led to its being nicknamed "Scotland's Disgrace" but this name has waned given the time elapsed since the Napoleonic Wars and it is now accepted for what it is.

Fireworks to an Adele tune.

The burning of the Viking longboat on Calton Hill.

Samba drum school.

Bagpipers with a little drummer boy.