Royal British Legion Scotland will mark Scottish American Memorial Day 2023 with a service led by the Reverend Peter Sutton AKC BD MTh PGCC, Minister of The Parish Church of St. Cuthbert, tomorrow (Monday 29th May) at 1:00pm from The Call Memorial, Princes Street Gardens.
Wreath layers will include the Right Honourable Lord Provost and Lord Lieutenant of the City of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge, Consulate General Jack Hillmeyer (United States Consul General Edinburgh), as well as representatives from the UK Armed Forces, Royal British Legion Scotland and the War Widows Association.
Music will be provided by the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, with USAF Honor Guard from the 48th Fighter Wing RAF Lakenheath and 2 SCOTS Colour Party.
The Scottish American Memorial, also known as ‘The Call’ was funded by Scots and people of Scottish descent based in the United States, through an organisation called the Scottish American War Memorial Committee, and is a tribute to the sacrifices made by men and women from the donors’ homeland.
This magnificent tribute stands as a testament to the brave Scots who valiantly fought in the First World War, and it serves as a poignant reminder of their sacrifices.
Designed and sculpted by the esteemed Doctor Robert Tait McKenzie, the Scottish American Memorial captures the spirit and essence of those who served. The centrepiece of the memorial is a kilted man, symbolic of the Scottish heritage, demonstrating the strength and resilience exhibited by these courageous men and women during the war.
The frieze behind the sculpture complements the central figure, showcasing the artistic mastery and McKenzie’s keen eye for physicality and movement. McKenzie himself played a vital role in the war effort by rehabilitating wounded soldiers who returned from the front lines.
For further details about the event, please contact Legion Scotland on 0131 550 1583 or email events@legionscotland.org.uk
Fringe Central: Artist Hub will be at Quaker Meeting House
Fringe Central: Arts Industry and Media Offices will be at Appleton Tower.
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society reveals the locations for its Fringe Central hubs for Fringe participants, which will be split across two city-centre spaces for the first time.
Fringe Central: Artist Hub
The Fringe Central: Artist Hub will be located at the Quaker Meeting House on Victoria Terrace. A former Fringe venue of 25 years’ standing, the Quaker Meeting House is an iconic building located in the heart of the Old Town, a stone’s throw from both the Grassmarket and the Royal Mile.
It will be a welcoming, inclusive space dedicated specifically to Fringe artists, where they can access Fringe Society services, meet fellow Fringe artists or just grab a tea or coffee and escape the buzz of the festival. The hub will be open between 10:00 and 18:00, seven days a week, and any artist from any venue will receive a warm and friendly welcome from the Fringe Society team. This space is for anyone, and everyone involved with bringing a show to the Fringe.
The hub will have a wellbeing focus as the Fringe Society is working for the first time with local mental health charity Health in Mind, to offer one-to-one support for artists, workshops during the festival and targeted resources on Fringe Connect, a digital platform for Fringe artists and arts industry. Following artist feedback from previous years, and in keeping with the wishes of the building’s owners, the space will be alcohol-free throughout the Fringe.
The Fringe Society offers year-round support and services to Fringe artists, including advice on connecting with industry, support creating press materials and guidance around managing and improving ticket sales or resolving any problems with their show. All of these services will be available in person at the Fringe Central: Artist Hub.
The Fringe Society will also be hosting a programme of participant-focused events, including discussions of topics relevant to the sector and social/networking meetups. The full programme of events will be announced ahead of August.
Fringe Central: Arts Industry and Media Offices
The arts industry and the media represent two vital components of the Fringe ecosystem, providing Fringe artists with significant opportunities to increase their profile and progress their careers beyond the festival.
The Fringe Society will continue to provide support and services to both groups this year via the Fringe Central: Arts Industry and Media Offices in Appleton Tower, just off George Square through support from the University of Edinburgh. This space will be where industry can access Fringe Society ticketing services, and meet with Arts Industry and Media teams, while benefitting from a quiet place to work.
Although there are two buildings this year, all Fringe participants will be brought together through events in the Fringe Central events programme, details of which will be announced at a later date.
Shona McCarthy, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society, said: ‘We are continually working to provide the best possible support to artists within our limited resources, and sometimes that yields beautifully serendipitous results.
“Establishing two separate Fringe Central spaces this year was borne out of budgetary and logistical necessity, but the consequent realisation of a dedicated space for artists is a massive benefit, both for them and for our team, in terms of having a focused and dedicated artists’ space throughout August. The Quaker Meeting House is a beautiful space with views that really connect to Edinburgh.
‘I’m especially pleased with our wellbeing offering this year, in partnership with Health in Mind. As everyone knows, the Fringe can be an intense experience – we want artists to know the Fringe Society is here to support them every step of the way, from finding affordable accommodation to onward touring and career development after the festival ends.’
Miranda Girdlestone, Manager, Edinburgh Quaker Meeting Housesaid ‘We’re delighted to be hosting the Fringe Central: Artist Hub space this year.
“We approached the Fringe Society a few months ago following concern about operating as a venue in 2023, to explore how we could still be involved in this year’s festival. We are thrilled that our peaceful Meeting House will be used as a home away from home for artists, looking for a wellbeing-focused space to relax and access support from the Society team.
“We hope to be back as a Fringe venue in the future, as are so proud of our long-standing relationship with this brilliant festival.’
Alana Genge, Head of Engagement at Health in Mind, said: ‘We’re excited to be working with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and supporting the talented and creative artists involved.
“We’ve had great discussions around what mental health and wellbeing support will look like this year for artists and it’s clear to see the passion and commitment the Fringe team has for ensuring artists know where to get support and that support is available in different ways.
“It’s the start of a hopeful partnership and we’re looking forward to being part of the buzz that the Fringe brings to Edinburgh.’
VIRGIN HOTELS EDINBURGH SENDS TASTEBUDS TINGLING WITH A BRAND-NEW BRUNCH MENU
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh’s premium cocktail bar and restaurant, Eve, is adding an exciting new flavour to Cowgate, as it officially launches its exquisite new brunch offering.
A specially curated experience for guests, presenting mouth-watering dishes to awaken tastebuds, carefully crafted cocktails perfect for day drinking and weekly live entertainment. Taking place every weekend between 12pm and 4pm, this new offering introduces a fresh take on brunch.
Eve opened its doors in late 2022 and boasts a luxurious interior with unique floor-to-ceiling murals and a vibrant, lively atmosphere, making it the perfect brunch spot in Edinburgh’s Cowgate.
At Eve, brunch is just the beginning. Guests can experience the excitement of weekly live entertainment with DJs and saxophonists bringing the party atmosphere to Edinburgh’s Old Town.
And that’s not all, Eve will keep things fresh offering drag brunches and musical themed afternoons, making brunch at Eve the place to spend your weekends. To kick off each month in style, there will be special payday events to add an extra sprinkle of joy to this brunch offering.
Just in time for the iconic Beyoncé concert, Eve has launched their brunch service, providing the perfect opportunity to fuel up before the show. As guests indulge in the delicious brunch offering, the sound of Beyoncé’s hit songs will fill the air, setting the tone for an electrifying pre-concert celebration.
In addition, Eve will offer even more entertainment options throughout the weekend to elevate the brunch experience. On Saturday, guests can groove to the sound of ‘The Katet’, a funky brass band that will keep the energy high with their soulful tunes. On Sunday, Amber Lights will take the stage, bringing a unique twist to beloved classics from the 70s, 80s, and 90s by infusing them with a funky flair.
This new brunch menu offers a range of culinary creations, meaning that there is something to satisfy every craving. From creamy sweet potato hummus to wholesome granola bowls, each bite is a delightful journey. Guests can explore tropical flavours with mango and pineapple brûlé or try the vibrant shakshuka and fresh salmon poke bowls. To cure a sweet craving, there is also waffles, delectable French toast, and the irresistible Brunch Board to indulge in, delivering the ultimate selection of sweet delights.
No brunch is complete without an accompanying tipple. Eve’s brunch offers an exquisite selection of beverages, including refreshing classics like the Bloody Mary or spicy cousin, Bloody Maria. Guests can also savour the refreshing Red Snapper or French Martini and of course, the ultimate brunch pairing, everyone’s timeless favourite, Mimosa, adding a touch of celebration to every occasion.
Launching this weekend, the 20th and 21st of May, booking is encouraged to guarantee a table. All reservations can be made through Open Table by visiting: https://www.opentable.co.uk/r/eve-1-victoria-street
David Moth, Virgin Hotels Vice President of Operations, and Interim General Manager of Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, said: “We are delighted to introduce brunch to Eve which offers an exciting new addition at the weekend for locals and visitors alike.
“Our team gas carefully curated a menu that we believe is going to get foodie’s taste buds tingling, of course, washed down with classic Eve cocktails and a couple special new additions.
“From amazing entertainment to stunning surroundings, we look forward to welcoming guests to enjoy all that brunch at Eve has to offer!”
Hidden underneath Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile lies an abandoned world, eager to tell its story. Mary King’s Close was once vibrant and bustling with life, filled with traders and Old Town residents.
When the plague arrived during the 1640s, the street’s close quarters made a perfect breeding ground for infection, permeating its homes and affecting the lives of the residents.
Today, The Real Mary King’s Close is one of Scotland’s top tourist attractions, inviting curious souls to journey underground, encounter fascinating former residents, and relish in secrets and stories never told before.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the attraction – 20 years of shedding light on Edinburgh’s dark past and teaching us about the extreme living conditions and harsh effects of social hierarchy during the 17th Century.
To commemorate this milestone, here are 20 things you didn’t know about The Real Mary King’s Close:
The Real Mary King’s Close has welcomed over 3.5 million visitors since opening its doors in 2003.
The Real Mary King’s Close currently runs 13,000 tours per year.
Since 2003, The Close has produced over 250,000 hours’ worth of tours.
Every year, since 2019, 32,000 people have taken home a souvenir photo to remember their time visiting The Close.
In 2022, 46% of The Real Mary King’s Close’s guests were international visitors, with 15% of all guests being American in 2022.
In August 2022, The Real Mary King’s Close launched a new audio guide app for foreign visitors, which now has over 9.5K downloads on the Apple Store.
The Close was named Mary King’s Close in 1694 after Mary King, who lived there for ten years between 1635 and 1645. During her own time, it was still known as Alexander King’s Close.
Mary King died in 1645, the same year as the eleventh and final outbreak of the plague in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh’s last Plague Doctor, George Rae, was a common sight on The Close during the 1645 outbreak of the plague. To protect himself from infection, he wore a striking costume made up of a large cloak and beak-like mask.
In the 17th-century Mary King’s Close, ran between The Royal Mile and the Nor’ Loch – a man-made lake that was eventually drained to become today’s Princes Street Gardens.
Contrary to popular belief, Mary King’s Close was never abandoned. The last family to live on the street remained in their home right up until the late 19th century.
In 1993, the renowned Japanese psychic, Aiko Gibo, visited The Close and communicated with the spirit of “Annie”, a small child who is said to haunts the site’s preserved 17th-century house. Visitors have been leaving dolls where Annie was discovered ever since.
Since then, The Close has collected almost £100,000 in donations from Annie’s room. This money goes to local charities chosen by the team. In recent years, the team has donated to Cash for Kids Scotland, LGBT Youth Scotland, Make a Wish Scotland, Stonewall, Strut Safe and The Edinburgh Children’s Hospital, among others.
Mary Queen of Scots spent her last night in Edinburgh, before she abdicated in June 1567, on Stewart’s Close, which runs parallel to Mary King’s Close and can be visited on the tour today.
During the Second World War, the site was used as an air raid shelter by members of the council.
One of Mary King’s neighbours was Dr Arnott, a local physician who specialised in internal medicine. He typically had to drink urine in order to assess the health of his patients!
In June 2003, Kind Charles III, visited The Real Mary King’s Close for its opening year. He also gifted a wooden chest which, up until last year, sat at the foot of Annie’s doll pile to collect donations for local charities. The Close now has the King’s box displayed in its Admissions Office on The Royal Mile.
The Operations Management team – which includes the Operations Manager, two Operations Duty Managers and the Tour Guide Team Leader – were all previously Tour Guides at The Real Mary King’s Close.
The Real Mary King’s Close has had its own tartan since 2013, which was designed by Kinloch Anderson. All the Guests Services team members wear the tartan as part of their uniforms.
During its peak seasons, The Real Mary King’s Close team expands to around 65 people from its core team of 30 full-time employees, who work at the attraction all year round.
To celebrate its 20th anniversary, The Real Mary King’s Close is hosting ‘Underground Unlocked’, an exclusive event where guests will have the opportunity to roam the hidden streets beneath The Royal Mile at their own leisure.
Visitors will come face-to-face with thirteen fascinating former residents, including Mary King herself and Dr Arnott, who was one of the wealthiest residents of The Close.
With a flair for the nitty gritty, Dr Arnott had some rather unique methods of diagnosis, his favourite technique being to analyse his patients’ urine for its colour, smell and…TASTE!
Paul Nixon, General Manager at The Real Mary King’s Close, said: “Back in 2003, we opened our doors under Continuum Attractions to reveal the real stories of Mary King’s Close and its former residents. Since then, it’s been such a huge part of Edinburgh’s historical tourism sector for the past 20 years.
“We wanted to celebrate by giving our customers the chance to explore it like they’ve never seen it before, and immerse themselves in the rich history Edinburgh has to offer.
“At The Real Mary King’s Close, we are passionate about storytelling and creating unforgettable experiences that transport our visitors back in time. We can’t wait to welcome them to ‘Underground Unlocked’ and give them our most immersive experience yet.”
The special ‘Underground Unlocked’ experience will be running on Thursday 25th May from 18.30 until 21.00. Tickets are £29 per person. Spaces are extremely limited, so pre-booking is highly recommended.
StagEHd Festival, Edinburgh’s newest open-access community theatre festival, has announced its 2023 programme.
Returning once more to the Ross Bandstand in Princes Street Gardens West, StagEHd 2023 will present a weekend of theatre on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 June, with thanks to support from The National Lottery Awards for All Scotland fund.
The festival opens at midday on Saturday 10 June by welcoming back the students of Momentum Performing Arts to kick things off with their Musical Mania (12:00, 10 Jun), a mash-up of musicals new and old.
Audiences demanded an encore from the group in 2022, and this year is bound to be the same, guaranteed to get you clapping, dancing, and singing along to your favourite stage hits.
Following in the footsteps of this burgeoning talent, are two of Edinburgh’s oldest and newest community theatre companies. The Forth Act will preview their debut production of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream (13:30, 10 Jun) with a taster performance before their open-air run at Saughton Park later in June.
And Edinburgh People’s Theatre, Edinburgh’s longest running community theatre company, reprise their award-winning performance of The Book Club of Little Witterington (14:30, 10 Jun) from this year’s SCDA One-Act Play Festival.
Later on Saturday afternoon, Shifting Sands Theatre will lead an all-ages Workshop in Clown & Physical Comedy (15:30, 10 Jun), before Frighthouse Productions share three tales of the surreal and spooky in The Wheel of Misfortune (16:30, 10 Jun), a family-friendly horror anthology inspired by Goosebumps and The Twilight Zone.
Finally on Saturday, Castle Rock will come alive with song as Edinburgh’s premier community choir, Sing in the City bring the first day of the festival to a close with Sing in the City – Under the Castle (18:00, 10 Jun).
Sunday’s performances start as all Sundays should, with a whole lot of interactive fun from Mr Blue Productions. Our ABC Story (12:00, 11 Jun) uses puppets, pockets, and a variety of objects to help young audiences create their very own “Once upon a time…” story.
Mr Blue Productions StagEHd 2022, photo by John Preece
Pack up a Sunday picnic and enjoy lunchtime entertainment from the young dancers of KS Dance Academy who will get audiences on their feet with KS Dance Academy Showcase (13:30, 11 Jun). And Scotland’s premier all-female mumming troupe, The Meadows Mummers present a feminised pastiche of Shakespeare’s play within a play with The Not-So-Rude Mechanicals (14:30, 11 Jun).
Emerging theatre company Resilience Theatre Movement preview their 2023 Edinburgh Festival Fringe offering on Sunday afternoon. Former friends and roommates, Annie and Frances haven’t spoken to each other in more than a year. But sparks fly when Frances shows up at Annie’s door drunk and demanding to talk in Waiting for Champagne (15:30, 11 Jun).
And emerging playwright Kate Macsween demonstrates the power of words in Letters from Holloway (17:00, 11 Jun), a story inspired by the women and young offenders incarcerated at Holloway Prison.
2023’s StagEHd Festival closes on Sunday evening with an adaptation of one of Molière’s famous comedies, The Bourgeois Gentleman.
Presented by The Mirror of Stage | Lustro SCENY, Edinburgh’s bilingual English and Polish theatre company, Molière’s Garden Party (18:00, 11 Jun) is a funny yet thoughtful play that unravels the absurdity of human nature.
Supported by the Edinburgh Graduate Theatre Group and The National Lottery Awards for All Scotland Fund, StagEHd Festival is an open-access, free-to-attend, two-day celebration of Edinburgh’s performing arts.
StagEHd 2023 will take place at the Ross Bandstand in Princes Street Gardens West on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 June. Entry to the festival is free with a bucket collection at the end of each performance, with 100% of the proceeds being shared amongst the artists performing.
To find out more about the festival, and to book your free tickets, visit www.stagehdfestival.com.
St James Quarter has revealed that the Batman’s iconic Batmobile will be parked on Register Square on the 6th and 7th May for Comic Con. Comic fans will have a chance to get their picture taken with the famous vehicle, which is based on the classic version from the 1989 film.
And that’s not all, Ghostbuster fans will get an opportunity to pose and take a picture with the legendary Ecto-1 Car which will be situated at the Multrees entrance at St James Quarter.
As well as endless picture opportunities, Comic fans will get the chance to meet their favourite superheroes and comic stars, including Spider Man, Shrek and Pikachu. Attendees will also learn about the world of comic books from the experts, with special guest appearances from the likes of Jim Alexander, Monty Nero and Art of Fish who have all written or drawn for Marvel, DC and 2000 AD.
There will also be interactive workshops including a slime making session the kids will love, as well as mask making workshop where guests can step into the shoes of their favourite superhero and create their own iconic look.
Comic Con is encouraging guests to get involved in the action and take part in its renowned cosplay competition on Saturday 6th May at 3:20pm where a first-place trophy and cash prize is up for grabs.
Kicking off from 10am on Saturday, the B3 car park will be transformed into a hub of activity, courtesy of the Big Glasgow Comic Page, featuring everything from comic book and memorabilia sellers and workshops to props and gaming.
Nick Peel, Managing Director at St James Quarter said: “Don’t miss out on the ultimate celebration of superheroes and villains at St James Quarter this weekend. With a diverse range of attractions including the Batmobile, cosplay competitions, merchandise vendors, comic characters, and interactive workshops, there’s something for everyone.
“We cannot wait to welcome you all to Comic Con this weekend!”
For more information visit the BGCP Comic Con event page.
Eve, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh’s all day dining venue, is excited to announce the grand launch of its Courtyard in partnership with Patrón Tequila – one of the world’s leading tequila brands.
The launch will coincide with the beloved Cinco de Mayo celebration, taking place tomorrow (Friday, 5th May) between 5pm-10pm followed by an entire weekend of thrilling festivities on the Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th May between 3pm – 10pm.
The Eve Courtyard is set to be a haven of blissful entertainment and delight, offering guests the opportunity to relax in the warm glow of the sun while sipping on tantalizing tequila creations and indulging in traditional Mexican small plates, known as ‘Botanas’, curated exclusively for the Courtyard launch.
Patrón Tequila has transformed the Courtyard into a homage to its Mexican roots and tequila-making tradition, providing an exclusive food menu that includes Lamb Shoulder Barbacoa Taco and Smoked Mushroom Taco. We will also provide a selection of Margarita and Paloma cocktails crafted with Patrón Silver, offering guests the perfect way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in style.
As the sun sets and the stars come out, the Courtyard will come alive with the sounds of live music from Los Chichanos and Pilgrims Society, two vibrant and energetic bands that bring the party to Edinburgh’s late-night fiestas. With performances all weekend long, they will elevate guests’ experience with an unforgettable soundtrack to their weekend.
There will also be pinatas bursting with prizes and Mexican bingo for some friendly competition, to name but a few. Plus, Patrón popcorn and frozen cocktails will be on offer to keep guests cool and refreshed.
David Moth, Virgin Hotels Vice President of Operations and Interim General Manager of Virgin Hotels Edinburgh said: “We are thrilled to bring the vibrant spirit of Mexico to life at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh with our Eve Courtyard launch event in partnership with Patrón for Cinco de Mayo.
“It’s an exciting celebration with delicious cocktails and food that will transport guests to the flavours of Mexico. But that’s not all – we have surprises and delights planned all weekend, including the chance to win an overnight luxury stay in Sir Richard Branson’s flat. It’s going to be a weekend filled with fun, festivities, and unforgettable experiences.”
Cinco de Mayo is just one of many events hosted Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is hosting. Eve will be host of many seasonal activations and brand takeovers throughout the year with Patron taking over the Eve Courtyard for the next 3 months of summer. To stay up to date with the latest news and events, follow Virgin Hotels Edinburgh’s Eve channels on social media here:
Leader in aesthetic treatments Laser Clinics UK has announced it will be opening a clinic this April in Hanover Street naming Edinburgh as a priority destination for its ambitious UK expansion.
Laser Clinics is the largest cosmetic clinic company globally, offering state-of-the-art laser hair removal, vascular and pigmentation therapy as well as skin treatments, LED light enhancement and cosmetic injectables. It has over 200 stores globally and with an ambition to take the brand and services to over 100 destinations across the UK.
A spokesperson for Laser Clinics United Kingdom said, “We are very much looking forward to opening a clinic in Edinburgh. We assess all our locations carefully and it has always been a key destination in our expansion plans, we feel that we have found the ideal location at Hanover Street.
“We are already starting to build our team and would welcome applications from therapists already skilled in laser hair removal and skin treatments. At Laser Clinics we recognise that many of our services offer life changing benefits to our clients. Our Therapists and Clinicians often provide interventions that positively contribute to greater wellbeing, improved self-esteem and confidence.”
Laser Clinics United Kingdom, Edinburgh will offer the following services:
• Laser Hair Removal – Laser Hair Removal permanently reduces hair so you don’t have to waste time shaving, leaving you ready at a moment’s notice. Laser Clinics have treatments suitable for all skin types and offer complimentary consultations.
• Skin Treatments – Revitalise your skin by targeting any area – wrinkles, veins, pigmentation, acne or scarring, or simply create a more radiant complexion. Enhance, rejuvenate, refresh your skin with a range of non-invasive, professional treatments.
• Cosmetic Injectables – Wrinkles and volume loss are a natural part of the ageing process – as our skin gets thinner and our body decreases its production of natural collagen and elastin.
From dermal fillers to anti-wrinkle treatments, lip filler to chin sculpting, the experienced team at Laser Clinics can provide a tailored treatment plan to deliver on your aesthetic goals. Laser Clinics United Kingdom, Edinburgh will be located at 16 Hanover Street, Edinburgh EH2 2EN.
THOUSANDS of revellers gathered on Calton Hill last night to take part in an ancient Celtic ritual to welcome the arrival of the summer months of the year.
The Beltane Fire Festival has become a cultural staple in Edinburgh and is one of Scotland’s most popular events.
The festival, led by the May Queen and her court, included a spectacular fire show set against the night sky.
Organisers estimate that more than eight thousand people watched the Calton Hill spectacle and, despite the initial ‘cloud-kissed’ beginnings, the sky cleared up beautifully and gave way to an extraordinary and spectacular event!
Copyright Ross Cameron for Beltane Fire Society. All Rights Reserved. www.beltane.org / www.facebook.com/beltanefiresociety
Festival Coordinator Tom Watton said: “It’s such an achievement that so many dedicated volunteers come together to keep this beautiful festival alive. Once again the community and our loyal audiences came together to toast the Earth and mark the turning of the year.”
The modern Beltane Festival has been running since 1988 and is the spring/summer counterpart to the Samhuinn Fire Festival which is held in the city centre on 31 October. The events are ‘modern re-imaginings’ of ancient Celtic festivals to mark the turning seasons.
The Beltane Fire Society is a charity run by volunteers, dedicated to marking the fire festivals of the ancient Celtic calendar and keeping traditional Scottish skills of street theatre, music and pageantry alive.
West Princes Street Gardens will host a special free screening in the Capital to mark the Coronation of HM The King.
On Saturday 6 May, Edinburgh’s screening will coincide with celebrations taking place around the country as the nation marks the crowning of the King alongside Camilla, the Queen Consort, with a special extended bank holiday weekend.
The ceremony, which is taking place at Westminster Abbey in London, is scheduled to begin at 11am but access to the screening area will open from 10am. Entry is free and un-ticketed.
On Sunday 7 May, the screen will remain in place and broadcast The Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle to spectators in the Gardens. The Coronation Concert will bring global music icons and contemporary stars together in celebration of the historic occasion.
As a new Royal era begins, residents are also invited to share their memories and record well wishes for the new sovereign from Tuesday 2 May in the online Book of Congratulations. Physical books will also be available at the City Chambers and Central Library from Tuesday 2 May until Tuesday 9 May from 10am until 5pm.
In his role as His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant, Edinburgh’s Lord Provost Robert Aldridge will be representing the City of Edinburgh at the proceedings in London.
Lord Provost Robert Aldridge said: “The Coronation of King Charles is a truly historic event and we’re proud to be joining in with screenings and services in towns and cities across the United Kingdom for those who wish to come together and celebrate the occasion.
“Watching the ceremony and celebrations on the big screen will be a great way for people to be involved and soak up the atmosphere of the extraordinary weekend.”
The big screen has been supported by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.
People are encouraged to bring their own picnics, however the Scott’s café will be open and can provide take-away food and beverages.
The screening will take place outdoors, so we are advising those wishing to attend to plan ahead, dress for the weather, and bring plenty of water. Toilet facilities will be available and there will be limited seats so we advise bringing blankets or chairs. Extra litter bins will be in place and BBQs will not be permitted.
To mark HM The King’s Coronation, communities and citizens have applied for street closures to celebrate this historic event.
National activities There are also number of national initiatives taking place with residents encouraged to gather and it’s hoped Coronation Big Lunches and The Big Help Out will bring communities together over the weekend.
Coronation Big Lunch
The Coronation Big Lunch on 7 May is designed to bring neighbours and communities together to share friendship, food and fun and be part of history.
Bank holiday Monday 8 May will see a nationwide initiative to raise awareness of the value and impact of volunteering.
It is an opportunity to explore how rewarding volunteering can be. You can get involved and find out how you can make a difference in your community.
There will be lots of different kinds of opportunities, with many of the UK’s leading volunteer charities supporting the initiative. More detail is available on The Big Help Out website.
