What is the name of Edinburgh's traditional torchlight procession held before Hogmanay?

Edinburgh's traditional torchlight procession held before Hogmanay is called the Torchlight Procession.

The event is a major opening ceremony for Edinburgh's Hogmanay celebrations. Thousands of torchbearers walk through the city, creating a moving river of fire that is designed to connect the modern festival with Scotland's winter customs and Viking-influenced heritage. The procession traditionally ends near Holyrood Park, where the torches form a large illuminated pattern.

Hogmanay is the Scottish word for New Year's Eve and is associated with several customs, including first-footing, singing Auld Lang Syne, and public gatherings. The Torchlight Procession is a relatively modern organized event rather than an unchanged medieval ceremony.

The event's exact route, date, and arrangements can change from year to year. It should not be confused with Edinburgh's separate street party or concert events on December 31. Its defining feature is the mass movement of participants carrying flaming torches through central Edinburgh before the main Hogmanay celebrations.