Edinburgh Castle will shine brighter than ever this winter as the UK’s largest annual projection show, Castle of Light, returns for a sixth year with an immersive experience inspired by the enchanting forces of fire and ice.

Edinburgh Castle will be transformed into a Castle of Light © VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Transforming the iconic fortress into a stage of elemental wonder, this year’s spectacular after-dark walking trail fuses Scotland’s fierce spirit with its frozen beauty. Visitors are invited to step into a world where flame and frost collide as dazzling light and sound displays awaken the Castle’s stories born of volcanic fire and sculpted by the power of ice.

Running for seven weeks throughout the festive season, on select dates from Friday 21 November 2025 until Sunday 4 January 2026, Castle of Light: Fire and Ice promises to captivate audiences with extraordinary installations, interactive moments and atmospheric storytelling.

Guests will wander through a fortress of light and encounter mythical creatures, from a mighty dragon soaring across the night sky to the Ice Queen herself in the Great Hall.

Castle of Light in previous years © VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Brought together by a consortium of the finest digital and visual talent in Scotland, in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland (HES), the larger-than-life installations combine cutting-edge projection, striking soundscapes and creative artistry to deliver the boldest Castle of Light yet - a breathtaking spectacle on a scale unlike anything else in the UK.

Alastair Young, producer of Castle of Light, said: “As we enter our sixth year, we’re bringing an even bolder and brighter adventure to Edinburgh Castle. Castle of Light: Fire and Ice draws on the fire that forged this ancient rock and the ice that shaped its form to tell a captivating story of resilience, transformation and wonder. Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve joined us before, this year’s show promises to be like nothing you’ve ever seen.”

Castle of Light in previous years © VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Alongside the awe-inspiring tapestry of storytelling projections, visitors can enjoy a variety of drinks and small plates, toast marshmallows by the fire pit, and indulge in a mouth-watering selection of street food on the esplanade.

Kit Reid, Head of Experience at HES, which runs Edinburgh Castle, said: “Castle of Light has become a much-loved winter tradition, attracting thousands of visitors every year. Now in its sixth year, we’re getting ready to present a completely new show that highlights both the fiery origins and the icy resilience of Scotland’s most iconic landmark. 

“Castle of Light: Fire and Ice will transform Edinburgh Castle into an unforgettable festive experience, creating magical memories for families, friends and visitors of all ages as they’re invited in to see Edinburgh Castle in a whole new light and take in the breathtaking views of the Edinburgh skyline after dark in all its festive splendour.”

Castle of Light in previous years © VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Historic Environment Scotland (HES) is the lead body for Scotland’s historic environment, a charity dedicated to the advancement of heritage, culture, education and environmental protection.

Janet Redler, Managing Director of Janet Redler Travel, said: “This spectacular projection show will transform magnificent Edinburgh Castle into a world of sound and colour - a festive treat for all the family! Castle of Light is now a firm fixture in the calendar and a must-see for anyone visiting Edinburgh in the run up to Christmas.”

If you or your group would like to enjoy a delightful tailor-made trip to Edinburgh in Scotland during the winter months, please do contact our friendly team today.