Beltane Fire Festival lit up Calton Hill in Edinburgh, as thousands of people helped welcome the beginning of summer.
The annual event, which is inspired by the traditional Gaelic festival, takes place on April 30 each year to mark the changing of the seasons.
Held at Calton Hill, a large procession starts from the National Monument and spirals outwards in a dramatic journey led by the May Queen and the Green Man, who are followed by a large cast of characters who either help or hinder them on their travels.
The weather was kind to the more than 9,500 people who participated in the 2026 festival, which culminated in a large bonfire to herald the beginning of the warmer months.
The modern Beltane celebration - run by the Beltane Fire Society volunteers - has been held since 1988, as has its counterpart in October Samhuinn Fire Festival.
Here are 15 amazing pictures from the 2026 Beltane Fire Festival.
9. Dancing with fire
Performers help celebrate the annual Edinburgh event. | AFP via Getty Images
10. Groups ushering the May Queen forward
Various groups of performers help the procession along. | AFP via Getty Images
11. Pagan
A performer takes part in the annual Beltane Fire Festival on Calton Hill. | AFP via Getty Images
12. Focusing on the fire
A performer helps light torches at Calton Hill. | AFP via Getty Images