Traditional Edinburgh torchlight procession Hogmanay event cancelled over funding issues

The torchlight procession which kicks off Hogmanay celebrations in Edinburgh has been cancelled over increasing costs, its organisers have announced.

The traditional parade usually sees thousands march through the capital’s city centre holding aloft flaming torches, creating river of bright orange along the historic Royal Mile.

However, organisers UniqueAssembly say they are shelving plans for the 2022 parade, blaming economic challenges and a “drop in available funding” for the decision.

The partnership, which also took over running the Edinburgh’s Christmas celebrations following a contract dispute with Angels Event Experience Limited, said they hoped the event would return next year.

“We have been trying hard to find a way to bring the torchlight procession into Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations this year, however we are very disappointed to confirm that due to the current economic climate, and the drop in available funding, we are unable to go ahead with this event in 2022,” a statement read.

“Our full programme of events, including activities for families and children, over the three days of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay will be announced later this week.

“We very much hope to bring back the Torchlight Procession to the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay programme in 2023.”

Other Hogmanay events including the Street Party have also been reduced in scale this year. Unique Events is partnering with Assembly to organise the annual festival.

The parade has run every December for almost 30 years.

City of Edinburgh Council leader Cammy Day said: “I’m sure many will be disappointed that the torchlight procession hasn’t returned straight away, but we look forward to seeing it back next year, better than ever.

“Whilst I share the disappointment with many that we won’t see the return of the torchlight procession, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay will still be the best place to welcome 2023.”