Castle of Light illuminates the night sky as all new storytelling projections unveiled at Edinburgh Castle
The capital’s enchanting atmosphere was kicked up a notch this weekend as Castle of Light: Magic and Mystery officially opened to the public, welcoming visitors from across the country.
Article Source: Edinburgh Castle
Last Updated: 27 November 2023 12:05
Castle of Light illuminates the night sky as all new storytelling projections are unveiled at Edinburgh Castle
The capital’s enchanting atmosphere was kicked up a notch this weekend as Castle of Light: Magic and Mystery officially opened to the public, welcoming visitors from across the country to experience the interactive light trail at Edinburgh Castle during a sell-out opening weekend.
Greeted with captivating tales and intriguing stories, this year’s brand-new show focuses on the magic, mystery and spectacular sorcery from Scotland’s past. With myths and legends, from fortune-telling runes and Tarot readings to the inner workings of the Portcullis Gate depicted through immersive light and sound displays, the winter spectacular wowed, conjuring a charming start to the festive season.
Officially opening this year’s event for its six-week run, local resident Andew Neilson joined the team behind Castle of Light to ‘switch-on’ the unique after-dark trail, after securing the coveted opportunity to light up the skyline as a winner of the Castle of Light mystery ticket trail which took place in the run up to the event.
In keeping with this year’s theme of ‘Magic and Mystery’, Castle of Light partnered with local attractions and venues to create a mysterious trail around the city, with the chance to win tickets along the way. Andrew was travelling on a Lothian bus into the city when he saw the clues posted on social media and identified the world-renowned tapestry studio, Dovecot Studios, as one of the venues hiding a magic card.
He said: “I happened to be scrolling on social media and came across the mystery ticket trail, it was then I put the clues together and realised that the magic card was hidden in Dovecot Studios - and my bus was just around the corner. I hopped off the bus and managed to find one of the winning magic cards!
“It was truly special to be involved in lighting up Edinburgh's iconic castle. People from all over the world celebrate Christmas and Hogmanay in Edinburgh with the castle at the centre of the celebrations. Cheers to a brilliant festive season!"
Now in its fourth year, Castle of Light is brought together by a consortium of the finest digital and visual talent in Scotland and further afield, in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland.
With 8,000 visitors attending during opening weekend to experience the spellbinding installations, Castle of Light is set to bring magic to locals and visitors alike throughout the festive season.
Stephen Duncan, Director of Marketing and Engagement at Historic Environment Scotland (HES), which cares for Edinburgh Castle, said: “The festive period is all about magic, joy and wonder and we wanted to bring this to life through Castle of Light.
“Now in our fourth year, it’s important for us to keep the show fresh so that locals and visitors alike can be transported into a world of wonder as a tapestry of all-new storytelling projections dance across the castle walls. And Andrew did a tremendous job in helping us build excitement and anticipation at the switch-on for the six week event run ahead.
“Celebrating Scotland’s rich heritage by inviting visitors to step into a history lesson like no other, from reawakening William Wallace and King Robert the Bruce, to exploring the lesser-known parts of the Castle, Castle of Light is a magical evening for all ages and we look forward to welcoming new and returning visitors this year.”
Castle of Light will light up the city’s skyline for six weeks throughout the festive season on select dates, until Wednesday 3 January 2024. Tickets are available to purchase now (adult tickets: £22), with concession rates, family tickets and Historic Scotland members’ discounts available. 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.
Tickets for an ‘access night’ on Sunday 3 December are also available. Designed to cater for people with additional support needs, including autism and dementia, the evening will feature a range of specific support including British Sign Language interpretation, as well as a designated quiet space and ear defenders to help manage noise, in partnership with Scottish Autism.
For more information and to get your tickets, visit www.CastleofLight.scot. Advance booking required.
Sponsored Links
Latest Edinburgh News
Miffy x Bubbleology carrot cake bubble tea comes to Edinburgh
Miffy, the classic children’s character created by Dick Bruna, is teaming up with the UK’s leading bubble tea brand, Bubbleology, for an unmissable springtime launch.
READ MORE
Marstons is going marmalade mad in celebration of Paddington in Peru
To celebrate the Home Release of Paddington in Peru, Marston's has created a limited-edition marmalade-inspired children's menu, which will be available in over 250 Marston's pubs nationwide!
READ MORE
Restoration work begins on the John Byrne dome at the Kings Theatre
Capital Theatres embarks upon expert conservation work to protect and restore John Byrne’s iconic dome design as part of the King’s Theatre redevelopment project.
READ MORE
Scots charity calls on young Scottish poets for national campaign
Communities across Scotland are being invited to make a visible show of support for LGBTQ+ young people this Purple Friday.
READ MORE
Three captured Lynx thriving at Edinburgh Zoo
Three lynx illegally released in the Cairngorms are doing well, having completed their 30 day quarantine at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s (RZSS) Edinburgh Zoo.
READ MORE
Next generation of professionals are on the UP
DLA Piper returns to 2025 with more rewarding network events for next generation professionals following resounding success last year.
READ MORE
Celebrate in STYLE at St James Quarter this Valentines Day
St Valentine might be the patron saint of love, but St James has got your celebrations covered.
READ MORE
Perth Ski School invites Edinburgh ski enthusiasts to hit the slopes this Spring
Edinburgh families have an exciting new option for children's and adults ski lessons this year, following the opening of Perth Ski School.
READ MORE
From Barra to Buenos Aires: Worldwide Gaelic celebration just around the corner
The Gaelic language is set to be celebrated around the world in less than two weeks' time as Seachdain na Gàidhlig, World Gaelic Week, gets set to return from 24th February - 2nd March.
READ MORE
The Rocky Horror Show tour smashes records
The Rocky Horror Show has once again cemented its status as a cultural phenomenon, with the 2024/2025 tour being the most successful ever staged in the show's 50+ year history!
READ MORE
Forever Edinburgh invites residents to fall in love with their city
This Valentine’s Day, Forever Edinburgh is making it easier than ever for residents to fall in love with their city all over again with exclusive Resident Rewards.
READ MORE
Cineworld is the best place to enjoy both new Captain America and Bridget Jones movies
Set to be this year’s Barbenheimer, the two hotly anticipated films will be shown across a range of formats at Cineworld, where spectacular offers and merch will make your date night unforgettable.
READ MORE
Singer championed by Eddie Vedder announced as Roger Daltrey tour special guest
Legendary rock singer Roger Daltrey has announced Linka Moja as the special guest who will be joining him on his UK tour in April and May.
READ MORE
Edinburgh Brunch Bar to Offer Free Cocktail to Customers to celebrate relaunch
To celebrate this exciting new chapter and share the Valentine’s Day love, Sip & Bark is offering a free cocktail to all customers on Friday, February 14th.
READ MORE
New smash burger joint opening in Edinburgh with big burger giveaway
SoBe Burgers, the Miami-style smash-burger brand, will celebrate landing in Edinburgh on 14 February by offering a free burger to its first 50 customers.
READ MORE
Free Ben & Jerrys in Edinburgh, for those with a special name...
This Valentine’s Day, Ben & Jerry’s is spreading the love – with a free sweet treat for anyone whose name is Bridget, Ben or Jerry.
READ MORE
Edinburgh Zoo welcomes two adorable capybaras in time for half term
Edinburgh Zoo has welcomed the arrival of two adorable capybaras in time for the February half term.
READ MORE
Haggis eating champion teams up with Innis & Gunn to offer one day unlimited steak frites
A SCOTTISH brewer is offering unlimited steak frites this Palentine’s Day – and a competitive eater has put the generous offer to the test.
READ MORE
Pioneering Scottish artist Georgia Cecile set to perform in Edinburgh this month
Georgia is leading the jazz and soul revival in a year that is destined to be big for her.
READ MORE
Top Scottish chef opens first fish restaurant on Edinburgh waterfront
One of Scotland’s most acclaimed chefs is opening the doors to his first independent fish restaurant on Edinburgh’s waterfront at the Shore in Leith on Wednesday 12th February.
READ MORE
Scottish architecture and design studio appointed for refurbishment of Fringe Central
Studio LBA, has been appointed as architect by the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society for the refurbishment and creation of Fringe Central, the new, year-round home for the Edinburgh Fringe.
READ MORE
Refurbished Cafe Portrait to reopen at National Galleries Scotland Portrait
On Saturday 8 February, Heritage Portfolio, the specialist events and catering company, will reopen the fully refurbished Café Portrait at the National Galleries Scotland: Portrait.
READ MORE
Hostelling Scotland launches appeal for Gen Z board members to help put the youth back into hostelling
THE organisation behind one of Scotland's most historic travel traditions is calling for young people to join its board as it seeks to capitalise on a surge in interest amongst Gen Z travellers.
READ MORE
The Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show returns to Glasgow
Here's everything you need to know about the biggest show of its kind in Scotland!
READ MORE
Significant pledge of support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for Leith Theatre
Leith Theatre Trust today revealed that it has secured a significant funding package potentially worth £4.5m from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
READ MORE
National Lottery funding award for Community Outreach Officer at Edinburgh Open Workshop
Edinburgh Open Workshop is delighted to announce that we have been awarded funding from The National Lottery Community Fund to support a new Community Outreach Officer.
READ MORE
Jump into February Half Term Fun at Gravity Active Edinburgh
Searching for the ultimate family adventure this February Half Term? Look no further than Gravity Active Edinburgh!
READ MORE
First Gigs on Sale for Edinburgh Tradfest
Edinburgh Tradfest is delighted to announce the first of its gigs for 2025 are now on sale.
READ MORE
Lost Shore Surf Resort Introduces Ultimate Surf Getaway
Lost Shore Surf Resort is celebrating its growing popularity by introducing an exciting new “Surf and Stay” package.
READ MORE
Stellar line up of leaders unite to influence a better future of work in Scotland
Award winning authors, a former SAS soldier, along with HR leaders from Scotland’s top employers are among the speakers for the CIPD Scotland Annual Conference, 2025.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links