This spectaular pageant is the based on the Celtic tradition. It is a re-enactment, using contemporary dance, of the battle between Summer (light) and Winter (dark). The cast is huge, I would estimate nearly 200 people including their "security" team many of whom were also painted very splendidly.
The parade begins at the castle
The procession including the the Green man and cloaked Cailleach (hag or crone),
moves down past the Witchery
and the junction with Lawnmarket towards St Giles
where the Summer King accompanied by his colourful and cheerful court will do battle with the Winter King
whose more sinister followers include ravens and the wild hunt.
There are firedancers
and acrobats and it is very impressive.
It all ends happily ever after with the Winter King claiming his bride.
And they will continue to rule together until Beltaine at the beginning of May when the battle will commence again but this time for the hand of the Spring maiden.
And we all wandered off to the pub.
If you want to learn more about the Beltane Fire Society visit this page
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Rosiebud
Brilliant!
I wish I had seen it, thank you for sharing the pics 
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