Edinburgh Castle's popular Christmas light show, Castle of Light, has been scrapped after six years despite attracting thousands of visitors. The event, which transformed the historic castle after dark with colourful projections, installations, music and storytelling during the festive season, will not return for the 2026 Christmas period.
Decision confirmed by Historic Environment Scotland
Historic Environment Scotland (HES), which looks after the castle, confirmed the news to The Herald. A spokesperson for the heritage body said: "It will not be going ahead this year as we take the chance to explore new Christmas offers at Edinburgh Castle, investing in improving our festive daytime offer."
The decision comes despite Castle of Light attracting almost 40,000 visitors during its most recent run. HES said the event required a "very substantial planning, operational and financial commitment" and was also heavily dependent on the weather.
Weather disruptions and sustainability concerns
The organisation said high winds and storms had caused cancellations in previous years, with four nights of the 2024-25 event called off due to bad weather.
The spokesperson added: "When all of these factors are considered together, the event is no longer sustainable for HES and the decision was taken by our executive leadership not to extend the contract for Castle of Light."
History of the event
The Castle of Light first launched in 2019, with the event quickly becoming part of Edinburgh's festive calendar. The first edition attracted almost 33,000 people and saw the castle's historic walls brought to life through projections inspired by the city's history, geology and mythology.
It was held six times between 2019-20 and 2025-26, although the event was unable to go ahead during the 2020-21 season due to covid restrictions. Attendance varied over the years, with just over 28,000 people attending the run after the pandemic before numbers increased again.
Almost 40,000 people visited during last winter's event, making the decision to scrap it particularly notable. The event was spread across more than 10 locations around the castle and could run for up to eight weeks. Additionally it required extensive planning and staff resources, with the weather conditions permitting if the event would go ahead.
New festive plans and city celebrations
While Castle of Light has now come to an end, HES said it plans to give visitors a different festive experience at the attraction this year. The organisation will instead focus on daytime Christmas activities, including new decorations and family experiences, alongside afternoon teas.
Scots will still be able to attend Edinburgh's Christmas celebrations in the city centre. The Edinburgh Christmas Markets will take place from November 14 to January 3 2027 in East Princes Street Gardens, featuring stalls selling gifts, decorations, food and funfair rides.
