Edinburgh's Hogmanay, produced by Unique Events on behalf of the City of Edinburgh Council, launched three days of celebrations for its 21st anniversary tonight with a spectacular Torchlight Procession through the centre of the historic city. A crowd estimated at an amazing 35,000 including a sell out 8.500 torch carriers, were led by 26 Up Helly Aa' Vikings from Shetland and 6 pipe bands with over 100 pipers to the bonfire and a spectacular Son et Lumière display on Calton Hill. The audience enjoyed an exclusive preview of the 2014 Homecoming Hogmanay fireworks and light displays of saltires in the sky and the Acropolis was illuminated especially for the occasion. The event ended with the lighting of a "2014" sign.

Pete Irvine, Festival Director of Edinburgh's Hogmanay said "It's great to start the three days of Edinburgh's Hogmanay with such a fantastic crowd for the Torchlight Procession. What better way to launch the Year of Homecoming Scotland 2014. We like to think that Edinburgh's Hogmanay puts Scotland once again at the centre of the world map, and that the experiences that you will enjoy here are because you are in a beautiful city and in the best possible company -- the famously friendly Scots. We look forward to welcoming 2014 by linking celebrations taking place across Scotland."

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