The event, which honoured both Scottish heritage and social diversity, kicked off on the Royal Mile and marched through Cockburn Street, Waverley Bridge, Princes Street Gardens, and concluded at the Mound Precinct. Over 1,600 participants took part, including pipe bands, Highland dancers, and musical groups from across Scotland, as well as international guests from Australia, the U.S., France, and Sweden.

A special highlight was the 100-strong fan group of the legendary Bay City Rollers, adding a touch of pop nostalgia to the traditional festivities. Kyle Dawson, President of New York Tartan Week, led the parade as Grand Marshal, strengthening the transatlantic cultural connection.

The celebrations continued into the evening with a lively ceilidh at the Ross Bandstand and a gala concert at Usher Hall, featuring performances from the Red Hot Chilli Pipers and folk group Rura. Edinburgh-born television personality Gail Porter hosted the show.

Beyond the music and dance, the parade highlighted social awareness with featured tartans such as the Autism Awareness Tartan, the Samaritans Tartan, and the poignant Witches of Scotland Tartan, which commemorates the women executed for witchcraft between the 16th and 18th centuries.

Deputy Lord Provost Lezley Marion Cameron noted the importance of this inaugural event coinciding with Edinburgh’s 900th anniversary, stating:
“This parade is not just a tribute to our rich history, but also a celebration of inclusion, culture, and community spirit.”

The Edinburgh Tartan Parade is already being hailed as a future annual tradition, poised to become a key highlight in Scotland’s cultural events calendar.

Watch the parade highlights here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1UxW71JYGs
By Şahin Vahap Fırat