A Landmark Year for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Full line up and Show creative unveiled for The Heroes Who Made Us

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo gives audiences an exclusive look behind the drawbridge of its landmark 75th Anniversary Show, The Heroes Who Made Us, set to take place at the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade in August 2025.

This year’s milestone event promises to celebrate the past, while imagining the future of the Tattoo. Taking audiences back to where it all began in 1950, with the British Army taking on the prestigious role of the Lead Service, the Show will present music, dance and precision performance that make up the last 75 years of the Tattoo story and beyond.

Over 800 performers, from around the globe, will take to the world-famous Edinburgh Castle Esplanade for the 75th year – including some fan favourites. Joining the iconic Massed Pipes and Drums, Military Musicians and Tattoo Dancers will be Band of the Polish Border Guard, Top Secret Drum Corps, United States Honour Guard Drill Team, Ukraine Naval Forces Orchestra, and United States Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps.

Music is a key part of the Tattoo story, and this August, the Show will recognise the music that has shaped the Tattoo, and the wider world, over the years.

The Show will include poignant songs such as the “74th Slow March” played in honour of the brave souls of the 74th (Highland) Regiment who were steadfast during the sinking of the ‘Birkenhead’ in 1852.

In celebration of 75 years of the Tattoo, the Tattoo Performers will collaborate on a special performance Now That’s What I Call Tattoo 75, a section of the Show where audiences will be hard fought to keep their feet still as the performers take on a series of favourite hits from the last seven decades.

Each act is set to bring a flavour of the heroism from their country, regiment or tradition, celebrating those who have contributed to their stories. For Creative Director Alan Lane The Heroes Who Made Us marks his first Show in the new role.

Alan Lane, Creative Director of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “I am deeply honoured to direct my first Tattoo, especially as we approach such a monumental milestone.

“It’s a show I’ve admired as a fan for decades and the team and I have been working on this anniversary year show for over a year now. I cannot wait to unveil it to the audience and start to tell it stories.

“’The Heroes Who Made Us,’ honours both the Tattoo’s history and the everyday heroes who knit out society together with their volunteering, their courage or the inspiration their lives lived provide to the rest of us.

“We’re introducing a storyteller to this year’s show. Terence Rae is a brilliant actor and placing him at the heart of this year’s show will add a layer of theatricality that I am excited for our audience to experience. Terence is a long-time collaborator of mine and I jump at any chance to work with him.

“The creative and production team here is second to none and our constant aim is to blend tradition with innovation, creating a show that respects our legacy while offering fresh and exciting performances. Aways aware of our heritage but driving forward to the future, that’s the aiming mark.”

Alongside the incredible musical performances, audiences can expect a new role within the Show as a Storyteller will take to the Esplanade.

The role, taken on by Scottish actor Terence Rae, will support the storytelling and truly be immersed in the Show. Terence will also spotlight the local heroes who are working to make a difference to the community they serve, a special nod to the charitable ethos of the Tattoo that it has held since 1950.

Terence Rae said: “It is an immense honour to be the Storyteller for the 75th Anniversary Show of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – The Heroes Who Made Us. I’m excited to play my part in a show which celebrates all those who have shaped the Tattoo’s history over the past 75 years.

“I am deeply grateful to be part of this iconic spectacle, and to work with the outstanding creative and production teams that are here. Preparations have begun, and the excitement for the August Show is building every day. It will be a privilege to step onto the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade with my fellow castmates and play our small part in the mighty Edinburgh Tattoo.”



Jason Barrett, Chief Executive Officer at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “As we prepare to celebrate our 75th Anniversary Show, it is with great pride and excitement that we unveil ‘The Heroes Who Made Us.‘

“This milestone event is a testament to the enduring legacy and global significance of the Tattoo, and it is a privilege to honour the heroes who have played a pivotal role in shaping our history and communities.

“Under the visionary leadership of our newly appointed Creative Director Alan, we are committed to delivering a show that marries tradition with innovation, creating an unforgettable experience for our audiences. We look forward to sharing this special celebration with the world and continuing to inspire and connect people through the power of performance and storytelling.”

Tickets for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo’s 75th anniversary Show are now on sale and can be purchased at edintattoo.co.uk/tickets or on the phone, 0131 225 1188. The Show will run from 1-23 August 2025.

The full list confirmed acts is: The Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, British Army Band Catterick, British Army Band Tidworth, British Army Band Colchester, The Band of the Prince of Wales, Countess of Wessex Strings, Pipes and Drums of 1st Battalion Scots Guards, 2nd Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, 3rd Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, 4th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, The Pipes And Drums Of The Royal Corps Of Signals, Combined Universities Officer Training Corps Pipes and Drums, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Pipes and Drums, Crossed Swords Pipes & Drums, Paris Port Dover Pipes & Drums, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Dancers, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Fiddlers, Erskine Stewart’s Melville Schools Choir, Ukrainian Children’s Choir, Sing in the City Choir , Top Secret Drum Corps, US Old Guard Fifes and Drum Corps, United States Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team, Ukraine Naval Forces Orchestra and The Representative Band of The Polish Border Guard.

Blast Boxing keeps community fighting fit with Business Gateway support

An Edinburgh start-up is making a major impact in communities after accessing support from Business Gateway. 

Blast Boxing, a community interest company, aims to improve mental and physical wellbeing through accessible boxing classes and one-to-one sessions. Designed to help locals get fit, have fun and learn core boxing skills, the sessions take place in a welcoming and supportive environment. 

Founded by Kevin Matthews, the organisation offers a range of affordable classes for children and adults, along with drop-in social events and PE sessions delivered through Edinburgh’s Active Schools programme.  

Blast Boxing also hosts specialist wellbeing sessions, including ‘Box N’ Blether’, a popular format combining one hour of physical activity with one hour of open conversation, as well as parent-and-toddler classes and wellbeing sessions for both men and women. 

Working with a range of established organisations and charities in Edinburgh, the team offer physical and emotional support to residents in disadvantaged communities. As well as boxing, the team brings years of experience and qualifications in youth work, community engagement, health and fitness. 

Having previously worked in the community as a pupil support assistant and youth worker, Kevin saw firsthand the positive impact exercise had on mental health. At the age of 30, he pursued a qualification in sports coaching, setting the foundation for his vision of a community-focused fitness organisation. 

Blast Boxing has recently worked alongside charities Score Scotland and Spartans, to support young people and adults in the area through introductory sessions, mentorship and dedicated classes and is currently running sessions with West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre. 

Kevin reached out to Business Gateway in January 2024 to turn his vision into reality. He has been supported throughout his start-up journey by local adviser Lee Briggs, who has provided expert one-to-one guidance, business planning assistance, and advice on business structure, legislation, and community engagement.

Business Gateway has also helped Kevin access funding opportunities and connect with local groups, enabling Blast Boxing to thrive. 

Lee’s guidance has played a key role in Kevin’s journey to grow Blast Boxing into a thriving enterprise, allowing the business to make a meaningful and lasting impact across Edinburgh. 

Kevin Matthews, Blast Boxing founder, said: “Business Gateway has been instrumental in helping me bring my vision for Blast Boxing to life.  

“The support and guidance I’ve received from Lee has given me the confidence and knowledge to shape Blast Boxing into an initiative that serves the community and makes a real difference on the lives of those involved.” 

Lee Briggs, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Having supported Kevin since day one, it has been fantastic to see his passion and dedication translate into real, positive change for the community. 

“Blast Boxing is a brilliant example of how the right support and determination can create something truly impactful.” 

To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit:

https://bgateway.com. 

Help Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre celebrate 30th birthday

We’re Turning 30 And You’re Invited to Help Us Celebrate! 🎉

This year marks 30 years since Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre first opened its doors. Three whole decades of friendship, support, creativity, learning, and connection.

To mark this huge milestone, we’re planning a special birthday celebration. A proper party for all ages, all backgrounds, and everyone in our community. Because that’s what we’re all about.

But we can’t do it alone. We’re asking for your help to raise £2,000 to make the event as inclusive, welcoming, and fun as possible. Your support will help cover:

✨ Entertainment and music

🎂 Food and refreshments

🎨 Children’s activities

💃 Decor and party supplies

♿ Accessibility arrangements

This isn’t just a party – it’s a celebration of everything we’ve built together over 30 years.

Whether you’ve attended a class, made friends here, or simply believe in the power of community spaces, your donation will help bring joy to many.

👉 Donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/dnc-30-bday

If you can give, thank you! If you can share, thank you! Every little helps us reach our goal and create a truly memorable day for all.

St Columba’s: Time to Remember

FRIDAY 20 JUNE from 2 – 2.45pm

You’re invited to join us on Friday 20th June as we gather together to remember loved ones who have died.

This free event on the theme of ‘The Longest Day’ will feature quiet music, readings and reflections, an item to make and/or take home as well as the chance to pause and think about about loved ones.

Everyone is welcome at this inclusive, non-religious event, suitable for all ages.

Time: 2pm-2.45pm

Venue: No17, 17 Boswall Road, EH5 3RW

A seat must be booked for each person attending, including children. Book your place(s) today on our website:

https://stcolumbashospice.org.uk/events/time-to-remember

or email wellbeing@stcolumbashospice.org.uk.

Wildfire warnings remain in place

A very high to extreme risk of wildfire remains in place across areas of Scotland today Monday, 12 May, the country’s fire and rescue service has warned.

Firefighters are currently tackling one major blaze near Fauldhouse in West Lothian. The fire broke out on Saturday.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has urged people who live within or who may enter rural environments to exercise caution.

Wildfires have the potential to burn for days and devastate vast areas of land and wildlife; and threaten the welfare of nearby communities.

SFRS Wildfire Lead Michael Humphreys said: “We are asking the public to exercise extreme caution and think twice before using anything involving a naked flame.

“Many rural and remote communities are hugely impacted by wildfires, which can cause significant damage.

“Livestock, farmland, wildlife, protected woodland and sites of special scientific interest can all be devastated by these fires – as can the lives of people living and working in rural communities.

“These fires can also have a hugely negative impact on the environment and the release of greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere.

“Human behaviour can significantly lower the chance of a wildfire starting, so it is crucial that people act safely and responsibly in rural environments and always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.”

Children First urges parents across Edinburgh to reach out for help this mental health awareness week

As Mental Health Awareness Week (12-18 May 2025) begins Scotland’s children’s charity is urging parents and carers across Edinburgh to call their support line if they are worried about their child’s mental health. 

A recent survey commissioned by the charity showed a staggering 92% of children and young people aged 11-25 in Scotland were worried about mental health. The same survey showed less than one in four children believed childhood is better now than when their parents were young.  

Last year more than two thirds of the people who contacted Children First’s national support line were worried about a child’s emotional wellbeing. 

From mental health, money worries and online harm, to struggles at school, the charity’s support line offers emotional, practical and financial support to any family in Scotland. 

Last year Children First’s support line gave expert, confidential advice to more than 2,500 families and supported over 9,400 people in 2024.  

Simon McGowan, Assistant Director at Children First, said: “Every day our support line team are helping more and more families who are desperately worried about their child’s mental health.  

“No family should struggle alone. Whatever your concern about your child, we are here to help. Our friendly team can provide expert support and advice that can make all the difference. 

“Call us on the Children First support line on 08000 28 22 33 or start a webchat at childrenfirst.org.uk.” 

One mum who called Children First’s support line in a desperate plea for help and worried sick about the mental health of her daughter, Orla*, said: “I honestly don’t know what I’d do without the Children First support line.” 

Orla was only 14 when she tried to end her life. Support from Jess*, a recovery worker at Children First, has resulted in Orla feeling less anxious and more positive about the future.

If you live in Scotland call the Children First support line on 08000 28 22 33 free, visit www.childrenfirst.org.uk for advice and support, or start a webchat. 

You can talk to the team seven days a week:  

Mon-Fri, 9am to 9pm 
Sat-Sun, 9am to noon. 

Starmer unveils new plan to ‘end years of uncontrolled migration’

The Prime Minister will today announce an end to Britain’s ‘failed experiment’ in open borders that saw migration soar to one million a year by ensuring people coming here earn the right to stay in the country

  • Migration system will back British workers, boost economic growth and control our borders under the Plan for Change
  • New contributions-based model will extend route to settlement from five to 10 years – with reductions for those who contribute to economy
  • New English language requirements across all immigration routes to promote integration

The Prime Minister will today announce an end to Britain’s ‘failed experiment’ in open borders that saw migration soar to one million a year by ensuring people coming here earn the right to stay in the country.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of today’s (Monday 12 May) publication of the Immigration White Paper, the Prime Minister will say that living in this country is a privilege that must be earned.

New immigration rules will reduce reliance on overseas recruitment, prioritise those who contribute to Britain’s economy and put more money in the pockets of working people, the first priority of our Plan for Change.

The new system will end automatic settlement and citizenship for anyone living here for five years.

Instead, migrants must spend a decade in the UK before applying to stay unless they can show a real and lasting contribution to the economy and society. 

Under a new framework to be rolled out high-skilled, high-contributing individuals who play by the rules and contribute to the economy and society would be fast-tracked, such as nurses, doctors, engineers and AI leaders.

The government will also raise English language requirements across every immigration route to ensure those wishing to live and work in the UK speak a higher standard of English.

For the first time this will also extend to all adult dependents by requiring them to demonstrate a basic understanding of English – helping individuals integrate into their local community, find employment and reducing the risk of exploitation and abuse.

The changes are part of the government’s Plan for Change to turn the page on over a decade of decline that saw Britain’s immigration system spiral out of control with record migration numbers, undermining the confidence of working people. 

The Prime Minister will take a ‘new common-sense’ approach, one that backs British workers over cheap overseas labour and links migration policy with skills to boost economic growth.

The full package of radical reforms will be unveiled by the Home Secretary in Parliament later today and builds on action already taken by the government to restore order to the immigration system.

More than 24,000 people with no right to be here have been returned since the election – the highest rate in 8 years – including a 16% increase in foreign national offender removals.

In a press conference today the Prime Minister will announce his overhaul of the broken system, and is expected to say: “For years we have had a system that encourages businesses to bring in lower paid workers, rather than invest in our young people.

“That is the Britain this broken system has created.

“Every area of the immigration system, including work, family and study, will be tightened up so we have more control. Enforcement will be tougher than ever and migration numbers will fall.

“We will create a system that is controlled, selective and fair.

“One that recognises those who genuinely contribute to Britain’s growth and society, while restoring common sense and control to our borders.

“This is a clean break from the past and will ensure settlement in this country is a privilege that must be earned, not a right.

“And when people come to our country, they should also commit to integration and to learning our language.

“Lower net migration, higher skills and backing British workers – that is what this White Paper will deliver.”

The Immigration White Paper comes after net migration reached nearly one million in the year ending June 2023 – four times the levels seen in 2019.

Public services were stretched, housing costs soared, and employers swapped skills investment for cheap overseas labour. In sectors like engineering, apprenticeships almost halved while work visas doubled and communities were asked to absorb record numbers.

Visas have already fallen by 40% since the government took power, but our new approach will go further and faster – reshaping the system around the needs of the economy and fairness for working people.

There will be tougher rules on who can come to work, study or bring family. Every part of the system is being tightened. Backdoor routes to settlement will be closed, enforcement will be stepped up as we end abuse of the system.

Britain will remain open to the best global talent – but the days of mass recruitment to plug avoidable skills gaps will end. New mechanisms will ensure employers wanting visas must show they are investing in British workers and raising skills in this country to boost economic growth. 

The Labour government says it will support businesses to take on British workers through new industry workforce strategies, while introducing much tighter restrictions on recruitment for shortage occupations.

The full package of policies in the Immigration White Paper will be published later today (Monday 12 May).

Overseas recruitment for care workers to end

International recruitment for care workers will end under plans announced by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper

The government’s Immigration White Paper, published in Parliament today, will include the change as the government takes action to bring down historically high levels of net migration.   

Care workers from overseas have made a huge contribution to social care in the UK, but too many have been subject to shameful levels of abuse and exploitation.  

Workers seeking to support the UK’s care sector arrived to find themselves saddled with debt, treated unfairly, or in extreme cases discover the jobs they were promised did not exist.   

In March, the Home Office revealed over 470 care providers had had their licence to sponsor international staff suspended since 2022. Under plans to be outlined today (Monday 12 May), the government will go further and put an end to any more overseas recruitment.

The crackdown on rogue care providers has seen around 40,000 workers displaced, many of whom are ready to rejoin the workforce. They will be given the opportunity to do the jobs they were promised, while long-term plans are drawn up to train homegrown talent into the care sector.  

International workers who are already sponsored to work legally in the sector will be able to continue to extend their stay, change sponsors and apply to settle, including those who need to switch employers following a sponsor licence revocation.

The Labour government says it is committed to tackling these issues and has committed to establishing Fair Pay Agreements which will empower worker, employer and other sector representatives to negotiate improvements in the terms of employment. This builds on the announcement in January of the expansion of the Care Workforce Pathway which will support the adult social care sector to professionalise the workforce.

Together, these measures will move the UK away from a dependence on overseas workers to fulfil our care needs. Baroness Casey has also begun work on an independent commission into adult social care – a once in a generation opportunity to transcend party politics and build consensus on the future of the sector.

The Immigration White Paper, published in full today, is part of government efforts to restore order, control and fairness to the system, bring down net migration and promote economic growth.

Healthy Heart Tip: How regular exercise transforms heart health

Exercise isn’t just about hitting the gym or going for a run, it is any movement that gets your muscles working and burns energy. No matter your age, fitness level or ability, there is something for everyone. Lauren Hewitt, Registered Associate Nutritionist at Heart Research UK, breaks down the benefits of physical activity and simple ways to get started.

Many people believe physical activity is a scheduled “workout,” but it can take various forms. Walking to the shops, gardening, dancing around the kitchen, or carrying heavy shopping bags all count.

The key is finding what works best for you, so regular movement becomes part of your routine.

How much physical activity should you aim to do?

If you’re an adult, the World Health Organisation recommends that you carry out at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week. Muscle-strengthening activities are also advised for two or more days a week to reduce time spent sedentary.

Lauren Hewitt, Registered Associate Nutritionist at Heart Research UK, says: “Moderate-intensity physical activity can be described as any activity that increases your breathing rate, makes you feel warmer and raises your heart rate.

“You can measure this during any physical activity by seeing if you can talk comfortably, but shouldn’t be able to sing. This could include brisk walking, cycling or mowing the lawn.

“Vigorous-intensity physical activity is when you’re breathing hard and fast, but won’t be able to say more than a few words without gasping for breath. This includes exercise such as running, team sports or aerobics.”

Your heart is the hardest-working muscle in your body, beating over three billion times over your lifetime. By meeting or exceeding these recommendations, you’re helping keep your heart beating longer.

How does physical activity benefit your heart?

Like the rest of the muscles in your body, your heart needs to be worked out to stay healthy. Physical inactivity leads to a 24% higher risk of coronary heart disease.

Lauren explains: “Regular physical activity can strengthen your heart and reduce your blood pressure. As your heart becomes stronger, it pumps blood more efficiently, needing less effort to circulate it throughout your body. This can help lower your blood pressure and reduce strain on your arteries.

“Regular physical activity can also improve blood sugar control and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes – a major cardiovascular risk factor. When you’re active, your body becomes more sensitive to insulin, allowing your muscles to use blood sugar more effectively for energy.

“When you are physically active, your cholesterol will begin to alter. Your LDL (bad) cholesterol levels may lower and your HDL (good) cholesterol levels may increase. You will burn fat and build muscle, which will help keep your heart healthy. Ultimately, physical activity is essential for a healthy heart.”

What about the benefits for the rest of your body?

Regular physical activity will help build cardiovascular endurance and muscular strength, improving flexibility and balance. Any activity that increases heart rate and blood flow will release endorphins, raising your energy levels and mood. Moderate-intensity activities such as brisk walking, jogging or tennis have been found to release the most endorphins.

Increasing your physical exertion levels will improve sleep quality and duration. Physical activity can also improve anxiety and depression by reducing the amount of stress hormones in your body, acting as a stress reliever. All aspects of your health are connected – these added benefits directly support your heart.

How can you add physical activity to your life?

Start with small daily changes to boost your activity and build healthy habits. This could be taking the stairs, walking instead of driving or standing on public transport. Over time, these simple and small actions become part of your everyday life.

“It’s important that you get involved in physical activity safely and at the right ability for you,” Lauren says. “Gradually build up your activity and work your way up to 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity per day.

“Don’t try to do all your exercise in one day, make sure you spread it out over the week. This will help you to avoid injuries, get your body used to new movements and be on your way to meeting the physical activity guidelines.

“Before and after any exercise, make sure you perform a warm-up or cool-down with gentle stretches or walking to prevent injury. Take breaks when you feel fatigued and keep hydrated during your activity, this will help you stay active throughout the week without making you feel unwell.

“If you don’t feel good one day, then take a rest day where needed before starting again.”

Motivation is key to setting goals and tracking progress. This will help you increase your physical activity and stick to a routine. You could monitor the number of steps you do each day or how long you’ve been active.

Remember, any increases in your physical activity levels mean that you’re improving your heart health. Download our Meals and Movement Journal here to track your daily physical activity.

Physical activity is a powerful way to protect your heart with small daily changes, it can make a big difference. To make it easy, download our ‘Design Your Own Home Workout’ and start moving toward a healthier heart today.

Feet Together, and Take a Bow…

Successful Year for Pomegranates Festival

2025 was another successful year for the Pomegranates Festival which ran from 25th to  30th April.

The packed five day programme of traditional dance, saw ticket sales up by over 40% on 2024; a sold-out Ceilidh Plus event mixing Scottish, Hungarian and Polish dancing; and a packed house for Charlotte McLean’s new not for glory dance theatre piece, brought to life by the incredible sure footing of Irish traditional dancer Jack Anderson and music from Malin Lewis.

Supported by Creative Scotland’s multi-year funding programme through TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and Edinburgh Local Community Fund through the University of Edinburgh, the Pomegranates Festival celebrates Scottish and world traditional dance practised by anyone, including cultural migrant communities across Scotland.

Now in its fourth year, the festival has grown from a two-day showcase of work performed by local dancers, into a five day festival of workshops, exhibitions, walking tours, discussions and a showcase for new work. 

Marking UNESCO International Dance Day on 29 April, this year’s festival finale Hidden Faces, was a powerful example of the strength of workshopping that the festival has anchored in its programme from the outset.

The piece – a hip hop dance theatre tribute to the masked trad dances from around the world – was created across 2 intensive days, choreographed by 2 guest artists – hip hop dancer and clowning theatre practitioner Sean Edwards, and Scotland’s only professional B-girl Emma Ready; performed by 15 dancers and 3 musicians all based in Scotland; and produced with direction from Jonzi D, founder of Breakin’ Convention, MC, spoken word artist and hip hop dancer.

Other new work that premiered this year was the festival commission Sequins – a hip hop piece fused with Congolese traditional Luba dance by Kalubi Mukengela-Jacoby, aBelgian Scot dance artist with Congolese heritage who choreographed and performed her solo to another festival commission Sequins of Poems to Dance To, a set of 10 poems written and spoken by broadcaster Ian McMillan with a haunting soundscape by Robert Russell.

One of the festival themes this year was masks, and the dancers took inspiration from the exhibition Masks by Lorraine Pritchard which was on display in the Storytelling Centre and the Edinburgh Central Library.

The exhibition included handcrafted Venetian style masks, books on the Venice Carnival and a collection of photos and newly-commissioned documentary film by Franzis Sánchez shot at this year’s Carnival and at various locations across Edinburgh.

Audiences also enjoyed a lively discussion following the screening of ten short films by home-grown and international teams of choreographers and cinematographers with an innovative focus of traditional dance on screen; a fantastic new piece of contemporary dance rooted in traditional dance and music Socratic Circles workshopped with pupils from Royal Mile and Abbeyhill local primary school, and postgraduate dance students from Moray House School of Education and Sport, University of Edinburgh; and a new podcast and a sold-out walking tour of Edinburgh with historian and dancer Alena Schmakova exploring Mary, Queen of Scots’ passion for dance.

Wendy Timmons and Iliyana Nedkova, co-curators and producers of the Pomegranates Festival said: “We couldn’t be happier with this new edition of Pomegranates.

“It is really rewarding, also on behalf of the 100s of the dance artists featured and our new and returning audiences, to know that the festival has earned its unique place in Edinburgh’s cultural calendar and is treasured by anyone passionate about trad dance and its links to poetry and art, film and fashion, craft and heritage.  

“We are proud that through this year’s 3 festival themes – trad dance, masks and intangible cultural heritage – we were able to focus on the fine examples of already recognised living heritage, such as Hungarian Csardas and Buso, Polish Polonaise, Chinese Yi culture and Venice Carnival.

“We are determined to build on the festival success of convening Scotland’s first-ever gathering about traditional dance and UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Convention.

“Watch this space as we continue to explore the opportunities this UNESCO Convention opens up for Scotland’s traditional dances in an international context.”

 The Pomegranates Festival plans to return in spring 2026 with a new five day programme of Scottish and world traditional dance. Dates to be confirmed.

The Festival is initiated and curated by Traditional Dance Forum of Scotland and presented and produced in partnership with Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland, Moray House School of Education and Sport, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh City Libraries, Dance Base and the Scottish Storytelling Centre. 

Pomegranates is funded by Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding through TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland); the City of Edinburgh Council and University of Edinburgh through the Edinburgh Local Community Fund. 

More information visit https://www.tdfs.org/pomegranates/