Beltane Fire Festival 2026

Beltane Fire Festival is an annual community celebration on Calton Hill, marking the arrival of summer with spectacular fire performances, music, dance, and ritual elements inspired by ancient Celtic traditions.

Organised by the Beltane Fire Society, it features drummers, dancers, fire-jugglers, painted performers, and a procession leading to the lighting of the bonfire at dusk.

The event has a lively, theatrical atmosphere — expect acrobatics, storytelling, and a sense of communal energy as the hill comes alive after dark. It’s free to attend (though donations support the volunteer-run production), and it’s a unique way to experience Edinburgh’s alternative cultural side in spring.

This recurring festival is a highlight for locals and visitors seeking something atmospheric and immersive outside the mainstream Edinburgh events calendar.

Beltane Fire Festival 2026 Event Info

• Venue: Calton Hill, Edinburgh (central, accessible viewpoint with panoramic city views)
• Times: Gates open around 7pm; main performances from 8pm–midnight (bonfire lighting around 10–11pm)
• Tickets: Free entry (suggested donation £5–£10 on the night or online). No advance tickets needed, but arrive early for good spots as it gets busy.
• Notes: Family-friendly earlier in the evening; some intense fire elements later (not suitable for very young children or those sensitive to crowds/fire). Steep paths to the hill, so wear sturdy shoes; accessibility is limited (uneven ground, no wheelchair paths to main areas).

Dates/Times

Saturday 2 May 2026 (typically the first Saturday in May; confirm closer to date as it can shift slightly)

Evening event from ~7pm opening to midnight (core action 8pm–midnight).