Dining with dignity: Social Bite announces new location for Pay It Forward meals service 

Social Bite announces new location for Pay It Forward meals service that allows people experiencing homelessness in Edinburgh to ‘dine with dignity’

A VITAL service that has served thousands of free meals to homeless people in Edinburgh for more than seven years has unveiled a new location in the capital.

The Social Bite Pay It Forward programme, which was set up in 2016 and has since provided more than 11,000 meals allowing homeless people to ‘dine with dignity’, will operate from The Bon Vivant, in Thistle Street, from January 2024.

The move follows the closure of Vesta, on Queensferry Street, after the sale of the building it is based in.

The Bon Vivant will open its doors on the last Tuesday of every month between 2-4pm to people experiencing homelessness in the capital who will be provided with a two-course meal funded by Social Bite and diners at the restaurant who choose to ‘Pay it Forward’ by adding a donation to their bill.

The Bon Vivant Pay It Forward service is just one of Social Bite’s many programmes to support people experiencing homelessness across Scotland and the UK, which includes the provision of daily breakfasts and lunches to vulnerable people in each of its cafes in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, and London.

Josh Littlejohn MBE, co-founder and Executive Director of Social Bite, said: “Since opening in 2016, Vesta has served more than 11,000 two-course meals to people experiencing homelessness in a setting where they can dine with dignity, a fact we are incredibly proud of.

“Whilst Vesta will be closing following the sale of the building, the vital work will continue, and even expand, as we take it to the new location of The Bon Vivant. A big thank you to everyone who has supported Vesta over the years as we look forward to this exciting new partnership.”

Antonia Jackson, Managing Director of The Bon Vivant Group, said: “We all recognise the important work carried out by Social Bite in Edinburgh and beyond, and The Bon Vivant Group is delighted to support the charity’s aims through this new partnership.”

Vesta will close on Sunday, October 22, and Social Bite is working with a range of restaurant partners to provide new employment opportunities for Vesta team members.

The new Pay It Forward service will kick off from January 2024 at The Bon Vivant on Thistle Street. If you are in a situation of homelessness, you can register interest in dining at The Bon Vivant in January by visiting the charity’s cafe on Rose Street, Edinburgh.

For more information about Social Bite and how to get involved, please visit social-bite.co.uk/.

TODAY: A Girl’s Own Guide to Surviving History

SCOTTISH INTERNATIONAL STORYTELLING FESTIVAL

Would you know what to do if you were accused of being a witch in the 17th century? How would you cope if your castle came under siege in the Scottish Wars of Independence? Wouldn’t life be easier if it came with an instruction manual?

Thankfully, Gillian Paterson and Nicola Wright have found just such a book for their show at this year’s Scottish International Storytelling Festival, A Girl’s Own Guide to Surviving History.

Told in the style of a Boy’s Own adventure book, A Girl’s Own Guide to Surviving History is filled with hot tips about surviving life as a pirate, fighting the system, and being a master (or mistress) of disguise. Told using silly songs, and a ridiculous amount of props this show presents a light-hearted look at the serious subject of the challenges faced by women through the centuries.

Gillian Paterson originally from Arbroath has worked as a costumed historical storyteller at museums and events around the country. She has a knack for finding the funny side of history, taking irreverent approaches to subjects and bringing them to life through her passion for history and storytelling.

Nicola is equally passionate about history and delivers entertaining and engaging workshops to primary and secondary schools on subjects ranging from castle life and the cursed Stewarts to Jacobites and WW1.

Gillian Paterson said: “I love history and entertaining audiences with stories of derring-do, fighting the system and life across the ages.

“It’s a chance to tell all the best bits and I really hope that this new show about women’s history, particularly all those great feisty women that have been buried in the history books over the years, will be as fun to listen to, as it is to tell.”

The Girl’s Own Survival Guide to History with Gillian Paterson and Nicola Wright is on TODAY Sat 21 Oct at 4pm at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1SR,

Tickets are available at www.sisf.org.uk

The Scottish International Storytelling Festival runs until Sunday 29 October. Tickets to each event in this year’s programme cost a maximum of £10, with family events costing just £5 per ticket. For those planning on attending multiple events, the Festival Pass (£20/£10)  offers discounted tickets to many live festival events, online and at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, as well as a discount at the Scottish Storytelling Centre’s bookshop and Haggis Box Café.

Full programme is available here  or visit sisf.org.uk for more details.
 @ScotStoryFest #RightToBeHuman

Extended Hours Announced for Final Weekend of Grayson Perry: Smash Hits at the National Galleries of Scotland

Last Chance to See Sir Grayson Perry’s Hit Exhibition

Grayson Perry: Smash Hits 

National Galleries of Scotland: National (Royal Scottish Academy) 

Open now, closing on Saturday 12 November 2023. 9am-5pm daily.  

Extended opening hours on Friday 10, Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 November 2023: 9am-9pm  

Tickets available to book online 

National Galleries of Scotland has announced extended opening hours throughout the final weekend of its blockbuster exhibition, Grayson Perry: Smash Hits, at the National (Royal Scottish Academy) due to phenomenal demand.

To make sure everyone can see Grayson Perry: Smash Hits, the Royal Scottish Academy will be open from 9am until 9pm on the 10, 11 and 12 November, with tickets on sale now.  

Only a few more weeks remain to explore the remarkable 40-year career of contemporary cultural icon, Sir Grayson Perry. On show exclusively in Edinburgh, the exhibition has exceeded all expectations, welcoming over 10,000 people in the first two weeks alone.

Visitors can see over eighty works, including richly detailed tapestries, subversive pots and elaborate plates – some of which are on display for the first time. 

Grayson Perry: Smash Hits has been developed in close collaboration with the artist. Much like Perry, the exhibition doesn’t play by the rules, renouncing traditional chronological displays in favour of presenting Perry’s work as a journey.

Smash Hits leads audiences through the many themes embedded within his provocative art, including masculinity, sexuality, class, religion, politics and identity.

There’s also a chance to tour Smash Hits with the artist himself, through a free audio guide of 19 works, available via Smartify. Let the artwork come to life through Perry’s engaging and witty commentary, as he discusses the wide range of inspirations and stories locked within each object. 

The exhibition brings together Perry’s meticulously detailed prints and imaginary maps along with many of his tapestries. This includes the rarely shown Walthamstow Tapestry (2009) which, at a striking 15-metres in length, presents a birth-to-death journey through shopping and brand names.

There’s also an opportunity to encounter the intricate cast-iron ship, Tomb of the Unknown Craftsman (2011). A collection of new works, some completed this year, have been presented to the public for the first time, including the tapestry Sacred Tribal Artefact (2023), and a series of pots and plates exploring themes of national identity.

Perry’s latest pots, such as A Plague of Diaphobia (2022) and Ye Olde English Pot (2023), are presented in the form of medieval beer flagons. Decorated with traditional slipware techniques, they reference subjects ranging from the polarising effect of internet to heraldic iconography.  

Sir John Leighton, Director-General of the National Galleries of Scotland, said: It has been a privilege to see the excitement and enthusiasm shown towards Grayson Perry: Smash Hits since it opened in the summer.

“With thousands of visitors pouring through the doors every week, the demand for Sir Grayson Perry’s inspiring body of work is evident. The National Galleries of Scotland are delighted to announce our extended opening hours during the exhibition’s final run.

“We hope they can allow as many people as possible to see the largest exhibition of Sir Grayson Perry’s work before we must close the doors in November.” 

Visitors can take advantage of a bumper three days to say a fond farewell to what has been a truly smashing experience. Don’t miss the final chance to see Grayson Perry: Smash Hits at the National (Royal Scottish Academy).

Book tickets online now. 

Castle of Light: Scotland’s mythical past set to light up city skyline

The creative team behind Castle of Light has revealed a first look at this year’s ‘Magic and Mystery’ themed interactive light trail at Edinburgh Castle, as the countdown to the winter spectacular begins.

Edinburgh’s most iconic landmark will once again welcome locals and visitors alike to experience an immersive after-dark walking trail – with this year’s brand new show focused on tales of magic, mystery and spectacular sorcery from Scotland’s past.

With opening weekend just five weeks away, local children, Lucas and Isla Brown, were invited to the Castle to experience an exclusive glimpse at the enchanting light and sound displays.

Andy McGregor, creative director of Castle of Light: Magic and Mystery, working alongside NL Productions, War Productions Ltd and Double Take Projections, in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland (HES), explains: “This year, we’ll be transporting visitors in time through a mix of large-scale projections and lighting installations to explore Scotland as a place of legend, storytelling and unrivalled mystery.

“Like the experimental alchemists of the 16th century, we use magical tools from our digital era to transport the audience, transform the castle and bring stone to life. Let immersive installations guide you through Scotland’s colourful past as a tapestry of all-new projections animate the castle walls.

“An enchanting experience for all ages, this year’s show brings together a mix of fantastic interactive elements including a digital wall of mirrors, a stunning wall of wands and the opportunity to meet Castle of Light’s much-loved lion mascot, Rex, all whilst savouring what has to be the finest view in town from the castle ramparts.”

On-site catering will be available throughout the event run conjuring up a delectable range of treats, with exclusive Castle of Light cocktails, including the Smoking One O’clock Gun, Edinburgh Gincantation and a Blood Moon Mocktail also available.

Stephen Duncan, Director of Marketing and Engagement at Historic Environment Scotland (HES), which cares for Edinburgh Castle, said: “Crowned for having the best Christmas markets in Europe, Edinburgh already enjoys an exemplary reputation as the ultimate festive city break destination; and Castle of Light truly is a jewel in the city’s skyline.

“Now in its fourth year, Castle of Light has continued to bring even bigger and brighter state-of-the-art projections to the fore and 2023 is no different – we’re bringing the magic of Scotland’s past to life! And we can’t wait to welcome both new and returning visitors to the Castle.”

Castle of Light: Magic and Mystery will run for six weeks throughout the festive season, on select dates from Friday 24 November 2023 to Wednesday 3 January 2024. Tickets are available to purchase now (adult tickets: £22), with concession rates, family tickets and Historic Scotland members’ discounts available.

A special ‘access night’ will also take place on Sunday 3 December 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.

Stephen continued: “We believe that everyone should be given the opportunity to experience the excitement of Scotland’s heritage, and so we’ve teamed up with experts to make Castle of Light as accessible and enjoyable for all.

“Castle of Light is a great opportunity to get together with family and friends and experience a magical night at the castle and we hope that by addressing specific access needs, we can welcome even more guests into Edinburgh Castle as it is illuminated with secrets of Scotland’s past.”

Police investigate series of attempted robberies around Royal Mile

UPDATE: A 32-year-old will be subject of a report to the Procurator Fiscal following attempted robberies in Edinburgh.

The incidents happened on Tuesday, 10 October, 2023, at St Mary’s Street, Market Street, Jeffrey Street and the High Street.

The man is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court at a later date.

Detective Sergeant Steven Dick said: “We would like to thank the public for their assistance with our enquiries.”

Detectives are appealing for witnesses to contact them following a series of attempted robberies in the city centre. Four crimes have been reported but officers believe a further two incidents, one in Market Street and one in the Royal Mile, were not reported to police.

The reported incidents occurred between 6pm and 7pm on Tuesday, 10 October, 2023,  at St Mary’s Street, Market Street, Jeffrey Street and the High Street. They all involved a man threatening members of the public and attempting to obtain money from them.

The man is described as white, around 5 ft. 8 – 5ft. 10 inches in height, with a medium build and brown, unkempt hair. He has dark facial hair with a beard and moustache.

He was wearing a dark jacket, grey-coloured jogging trousers and dark shoes. The man spoke with a local accent.

Detective Sergeant Steven Dick said: “We believe other people were approached by this man near to the train station at Market Street and the Royal Mile at the junction with Jeffrey Street and I would ask them to contact us to report the circumstances.

“We are in the process of checking CCTV footage from the relevant areas but if anyone has any information about this man, please get in touch with us.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 3049 of 10 October 2023. Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.

Unfolded & Friends – Sustainable Pop Up Market in Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

 

Edinburgh-based leading sustainable clothing brand, Unfolded, is hosting the first ever Unfolded and Friends pop up event at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh on Sunday (15th October).

The free event is open to all and runs from 11am-4pm at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh’s Greyfriars Hall (entrance from The Royal Mile via Cowgatehead). Alongside Unfolded will be other fantastic sustainable Scottish brands including Seilich BotanicalsVoxblockNatural Sparkle and Scents of the Wild

In the past 18 months Unfolded has grown to a community of over 100k+ women across the UK, turned down three Dragons on Dragons Den and attracted wide acclaim for their affordable approach to sustainable fashion from media such as This Morning, Lorraine and Glamour magazine.  

The event gives shoppers the chance to preview, try and buy the brand new Unfolded collection, shop the brands first ever discounted sample sale, enjoy a free drink, meet the founders and discover a range of other fabulous Scottish sustainable focused brands.  

Hosted within Virgin Hotels Edinburgh’s beautifully restored Greyfriars Hall, a Gothic church with vaulted ceilings, it’s the perfect spot to experience a piece of classic Edinburgh while perusing the very best sustainable products Scotland has to offer. 

Unfolded is a local business well on its way to achieving a big mission – to change the way people shop and make the fashion industry more sustainable.  

Did you know that 30% of new clothes made this year will never be sold – that’s estimated to be a staggering 26 billion items of new clothing that is destined to go straight to landfill? 

Unfolded is challenging the industry by creating clothes without the waste and using the savings to create positive impact in the world. They do this by: 

  • Designing clothes in collaboration with Unfolded shoppers to ensure the only clothes created are ones that people actually want to buy 
  • Production doesn’t start till orders start being placed, allowing us to match supply and demand 
  • Clothes are delivered direct from our factories to our customers within 4-6 weeks – removing logistics wastage 

Making clothes in this way actually delivers cost savings and these are used to: 

  • Offer sustainable yet affordable clothes 
  • Pay garment workers better wages  
  • Create long term change by funding children in India to learn to read and write (our clothes are manufactured in India). 

Since launch eighteen months ago, Unfolded has already supported over 5,000 children in education. 

Cally Russell, co-founder of Unfolded explains more: “Unfolded is all about community and creating positive change by working together.

” This is why we decided to host Unfolded and Friends and can’t wait to meet people in person at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh on Sunday. Over the past 18 months our collaborative approach to sustainable fashion has started to change this industry and we look forward to more Edinburgh locals discovering there is another way to shop this weekend”. 

Mafalda Albuquerque, General Manager, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh said: “Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is a strong supporter of small, Scottish businesses.

“Our very own Curiosity Shop, delivered in partnership with Virgin Startup, features local sustainable brands and is extremely popular with our guests and so we know there will be huge excitement for the Unfolded and Friends market. 

“We look forward to welcoming Unfolded into Greyfriars Hall to give guests and locals the chance to browse its incredible collection of sustainable products. In keeping with chic Virgin style, the pieces aren’t just fabulous but good for the planet too.” 

After London the popup market tour will be heading to Oxford Street in London and then Manchester before the end of the year.  

Find out more about the Unfolded and Friends Pop Up Event here:

https://thisisunfolded.com/blogs/unfold/unfolded-friends-event-edinburgh  

National Galleries of Scotland celebrates the evolution of photography and the impact of architecture in new exhibition

Making Space: Photographs of Architecture

Making Space: Photographs of Architecture

National Galleries Scotland: Portrait

7 October 2023 – 3 March 2024

Free Entry

Making Space | Photographs of Architecture | National Galleries of Scotland

Mark Havens

Take a visual journey through the history of architecture and explore the connection between people, places and photography in the National Galleries of Scotland’s new exhibition, Making Space: Photographs of Architecture. 

Opening yesterday at the Portrait gallery in Edinburgh, the exhibition focuses on one of the most enduring themes in the story of photography: architecture. With over 40 photographs from the 1840s to the present day to see, Making Space is the fourth instalment in a popular series of free exhibitions which explores the richness of Scotland’s national photography collection.

Generously supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, and awarded funds by Postcode Culture Trust, Making Space not only considers the integral role of architecture in the history of photography, but also how buildings impact everyday life. Architecture has the power to tackle inequality, address social issues including homelessness, poverty and displacement, and even create a more sustainable future; key themes considered throughout the exhibition.

Visually engaging and physically static, buildings were the perfect subjects for early photography, with the evolving built landscape continuing to inspire photography enthusiasts today.

From the dawn of its invention to new techniques of today, Making Space spans the breadth of photographic history. The exhibition invites visitors to peer through the camera lens and uncover a diverse range of photographic styles, formats and processes.

From Hill & Adamson’s early experiments on Edinburgh’s Calton Hill to spectacular contemporary photographs which capture the breathtaking scale of modern buildings.

Standout modern works include Andreas Gursky’s San Francisco which goes on display at the Portrait for the first time since its acquisition in 1999. Deliberately disorientating, Gursky uses digital manipulation to challenge perception, with humans often appearing insignificant and dominated by their built environment.

The exhibition also features three key loans from Tate, including work by renowned photographers Bernd and Hilla Becher, Candida Höfer and Hiroshi Sugimoto.

Chris Leslie

Making Space introduces several acquisitions made by National Galleries of Scotland in recent years, including six works from Scottish photographer Chris Leslie’s Disappearing Glasgow series and a further six from Canadian born Sylvia Grace Borda’s project exploring modernist architecture in East Kilbride. 

Untitled (Rosemary and Ocean) and Untitled (Sweetbriar and Atlantic) by Philadelphia based photographer Mark Havens round off the new acquisitions, with his colourful works gifted to National Galleries Scotland in 2019.

The social history of Scotland plays a central role within Making Space, with some of the earliest work providing a window into Scotland’s past, and more recent work tackling the issues of today.

Historic highlights include David Octavius Hill and Robert Adamson’s photographs from the early 1840’s, depicting the construction of Edinburgh’s Sir Walter Scott Monument. These iconic images not only record the birth of one of the Scottish capital’s most recognisable manmade features, but also provide the first known photographic documentation of a building site.

Thomas Annan

Heading west to Glasgow, Thomas Annan’s The Old Closes and Streets of Glasgow series offers a 19th century view on what could also be considered a 21st century problem – the housing crisis.

In documenting the overpopulation in the east end of the city, Annan used photography to highlight inequality and push for change. This collection of photographs is now recognised as pivotal to documentary photography, offering visitors insight into an important moment in history.

Linking historic photographs to the present day are a wide variety of contemporary works from across Scotland. Picking up where Thomas Annan left off, albeit over a century later, Leslie’s Disappearing Glasgow series documents stories from the people on the frontline of the city’s extensive demolition and regeneration programme.

Following years of decline, Glasgow’s Red Road Flats were eventually demolished in 2013, with former residents watching from the sidelines. The building’s demise and subsequent social impact have been carefully recorded by Leslie.

At the other end of the spectrum, the work of Sylvia Grace Borda tackles the evolving nature of architecture and the ways in which it can be used to improve society. Designed in 1947 and widely considered one of the most complete Modernist towns in the UK, East Kilbride was constructed to relieve pressure from an overpopulated Glasgow.

A visual record of the town was created by Borda between 2005-2017, highlighting not only the modern architecture, but the green spaces, integrated public services and homes flooded with natural light, showing what architectural design can achieve when the needs of people are at its heart.

Sir John Leighton, Director-General of the National Galleries of Scotland said: “This continued series of free exhibitions at the Portrait Gallery is a fantastic way to explore the history of photography though the richness and diversity of the national collection.

Making Space: Photographs of Architecture presents an opportunity to not only marvel in the evolution of photography, but also consider the impact our built environment has on society, health, and sustainability.

“We are proud to present several new acquisitions by contemporary photographers from Scotland and beyond, displayed for the first time alongside work by the trailblazers who inspired them.”

Laura Chow, Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “Architecture impacts us in ways we don’t often realise – the built environment around us affects how we feel.

“Our players have raised over £5 million in funding for the National Galleries of Scotland. I’m delighted that this money means exhibitions like Making Space are free for everyone to enjoy and learn more about architecture and how it impacts people’s lives across Scotland.”

Making Space: Photographs of Architecture opened at the Portrait yesterday on Saturday 7 October.

Frederick Street assault: Police release CCTV image

POLICE have released an image of a man who may be able to assist with an enquiry into an assault which took place in Edinburgh on Sunday, 4 June, 2023. The incident took place around 12.20am on Frederick Street.

The man is described as being white, 19-25 years of age, around 5ft 8in in height, with short dark hair shaved at the sides and spoke with a local accent. He was wearing black skinny jeans, a white t-shirt with black writing, and black trainers with white soles.

Police Constable Jordan Cowie of Howdenhall Police Station said: “We are keen to speak to this man who may have information to assist with our enquiries. I would encourage him, or anyone who recognises him, to please contact us.”

Anyone who can assist is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 0360 of Sunday, 4th June, 2023, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.

Björn Again to headline Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Night Afore Disco Party

DANCING QUEENS BJÖRN AGAIN TO HEADLINE NIGHT AFORE DISCO PARTY & NEW YEAR’S REVELS RETURNS TO EDINBURGH’S NEW TOWN

 Edinburgh’s Hogmanay organisers UniqueAssembly, who produce the festival on behalf of the City of Edinburgh Council, has released further details of this year’s 30th anniversary New Year’s celebration, with the news that ABBA tribute sensations Björn Again will headline the Night Afore Disco Party beneath Edinburgh Castle.

The New Year’s Revels also makes a triumphant return to the New Town Assembly Rooms.  

A set list of pop classics and disco hits will be the name of the game when Björn Again takes to the Princes Street Gardens stage at the Night Afore Disco Party on Saturday 30 December. With over 5,500 performances across 72 countries, it is a return to Scotland capital’s celebrations for the Australian ABBA show who first played Edinburgh’s Hogmanay in 2000/01.  

Björn Again will be supported by the original sing-along live band Massaoke, celebrating 30 years of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay with the best hairbrush anthems down the decades, making sure that the audience is the star of the show. Along with breakfast show presenter and DJ Ewen Cameron from Greatest Hits Radio, Night Afore Disco Party promises a spectacular sing-a-long party for all the family. 

On returning to Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Björn Again founding member Rod Stephen said: “I have toured the Björn Again show around the world since the late 1980s. There have been many shows with amazingly responsive audiences but I don’t think you can ever top an Edinburgh Hogmanay crowd.

“These guys are just on a whole different level. I can’t wait to see this again!” 

City of Edinburgh Council Leader Cammy Day said: “It’s fantastic to see another great addition to this year’s already stellar lineup for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay.

“I’m sure that Björn Again will make sure that there are no shortage of dancing queens when they take to the stage for the Night Afore Disco Party in Princes Street Gardens. 

“This year there is a new 4-day programme of events for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay at the Assembly Rooms which is really exciting. I’m really proud that we’re able to offer such an exciting and eclectic programme for our residents and visitors as part of our Winter Festivals celebrations.” 

The New Year cheer will spread across the city centre with a new four-day programme of indoor events in collaboration with the famous Assembly Rooms on George Street. The New Town venue will be transformed into the ‘Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Festival Club’, presenting a packed programme of live music, comedy, dancing and family events.

The return of New Year’s Revels on the 31st December, will see revellers birlin’ through the bells courtesy of Edinburgh’s finest ceilidh bands, live DJs, and festival favourites Massaoke providing a sing-a-long soundtrack and the Final Countdown to a spectacular Midnight Moment. 

A special Bairns New Year Revels event will take place earlier in the day, allowing young party-goers a chance to join the celebrations, with a family-friendly Massaoke and ceilidh extravaganza. 

The Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Festival Club events kick-off on Friday 29 December with Ho-Ho-Hogmanay, a live comedy show featuring some of the very best acts from the comedy circuit. 

The Night Afore Hoolie on Saturday 30 December, presents an evening of incredible live music with the award-winning Blue Rose Code, AKA Edinburgh born singer-songwriter Ross Wilsonwith a selection of very special guests musicians and vocalists. And on New Year’s Day, the fun continues we a programme of free live music and ceilidh dancing presented as part of the First Footin’ culture trail, expanding the free culture trail further into the New Town. 

In the Old Town, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay present the ever-popular Candlelit Concert at St. Giles’ Cathedral on Sunday 31 December. This tranquil and spiritual experience in the gorgeous building in the heart of the Old Town is an annual sellout and this year’s concert heralds the arrival of 2024 and St. Giles’ Cathedral’s 900th Anniversary celebrations with the first three cantatas from J.S.Bach’s Christmas Oratorio: Bach at his most exuberant.   

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 2023/24 is supported by Principal Funding Partners City of Edinburgh Council and Major Partners EventScotland, Creative Scotland through the Scottish Government’s Festivals EXPO Fund and Essential Edinburgh, all working together to create spectacular Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 30th Anniversary celebrations for Scotland. 

The Night Afore Disco Party with Björn Again and Massaoke will take place on Saturday 30 December, 18:30 – 22:00 in West Princes Street Gardens, Doors 17:30. 

At the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Festival Club, Ho-Ho-Hogmanay take place on Friday 29 December; Night Afore Hoolie Saturday 30 December; Bairns New Year Revels and New Year’s Revels Sunday 31 December, and free First Footin’ events on New Year’s Day all at the Assembly Rooms on George Street.  

The Candlelit Concert in St Giles’ Cathedral takes place 18:30 – 20:00 on Sunday 31 December, Doors 18:00.  

Tickets and further information for these 30th Anniversary events will be available from 10:00 Friday 6 October. 

Tickets for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay world-famous Street Party and Concert in the Gardens with Pulp are available now from www.edinburghshogmanay.com

Details of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay free New Year’s Day activity including Sprogmanay and First Footin’ Culture Trail will be announced in early November.

Edinburgh Dungeons launches most haunted Halloween show yet

The Home of Halloween, the Edinburgh Dungeons, is inviting guests to witness its new spine-tingling show, ‘The Death Cell’.

Running from 7th October until Halloween, the limited-time show transports guests back 100 years to October 1923, when the last prisoner was hung in Edinburgh’s notorious Calton Jail.

Traitors will immerse themselves in some of the most horrifying history as they delve into the dark and dreary past of the imposing fortress, with some of the worst conditions ever encountered in prisons. But beware, as the bodies of ten souls, which were left to rot under the foundations of the building, are still buried under the stones to this day!

Peasants can expect blood-curling frights, eerie occurrences and spectacular special effects as the stories of these fateful souls who haunt the prison walls play out in front of their eyes.

The Edinburgh Dungeons is renowned for taking guests deep into the depths of Edinburgh’s local history, and this spine-tingling show is set to provide another fearsome fright!

Simon Beattie, General Manager at The Edinburgh Dungeons, said: “The Dungeons are known as being the home of Halloween and this year is no different. We’re offering our most haunting show yet with The Death Cell.

“Traitors who dare to visit the Dungeons during Halloween will need nerves of steel as they are transported to Edinburgh’s eerie Calton Jail to face the wrath of the ten trapped souls.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming peasants to this devilishly dark experience, whether or not they make it out is yet to be decided!”

For further information and to book a visit to The Edinburgh Dungeons and watch The Death Cell, please visit the website here: 

https://www.thedungeons.com/edinburgh/whats-inside/events/the-death-cell/