If you love your fireworks, you’ll be distraught not to have been in the crowd for the closing party of the incredible Edinburgh International Festival (EIF) – where a whopping 400,000 fireworks were launched into the night sky as part of the Virgin Money Fireworks Concert.

You did read that correctly, organisers fired off no fewer 400,000 pyrotechnic products during the staggeringly impressive display. Even more remarkable, the display was launched from the top of Edinburgh Castle, in a mind-boggling technical feat that absolutely wowed the 250,000 spectators gathered on Princes Street Gardens. People gathered in the local area and indeed, throughout the rest of the city, will have enjoyed a memorable display against the backdrop of Edinburgh’s most famous and historic landmark.

Classical choreography

One of the most staggering parts of the display was the impeccable timing of the choreography. The fireworks were perfectly timed to synchronise with a classical music concert performed by the Scottish Chamber Orchestra. The orchestra is internationally celebrated, performing all over the world and known for the exceptional talent of its many musicians.

The concert was divided into two parts, the first starting at 9pm and the second reaching a climax with the start of the fireworks display. The Scottish Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Clark Rundell, performed a special selection of songs by Leonard Bernstein in the first half – including music from West Side Story.

The mood changed when the fireworks began at approximately 9.30pm, as the orchestra performed dramatic pieces from Gustav Holt’s The Planets, including famous works such as ‘Mars’, ‘Jupiter’ and ‘Venus’.

The finale – and ‘that’ waterfall

It’s a tough ask to find a fitting end for such a spectacular show, but organisers managed it perfectly with an enormous explosion of white glitter and gold around 200 metres off the grounds. Spectators were also in raptures about the ‘waterfall’ of fireworks that flowed down the castle rock, an extremely clever effect that can be tricky to pull off.

About the Edinburgh International Festival

It’s fitting that the fireworks display for the close of the Edinburgh International Festival was so spectacular, as it was a hugely successful year for the annual event. Hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over Scotland, the UK and the world descended on the Scottish capital for the arts festival. There were 85 productions across the three-week festival, putting on 180 performances across a variety of venues city wide. A total of 2,800 artists and performers from 60 countries took part in all.

Commenting on the event, the director of the EIF Fergus Linehan told the Aberdeen Evening Express:

“This year’s Virgin Money Fireworks Concert was absolutely amongst the best displays of its kind anywhere in the world.”

“As the 2018 International Festival draws to a close, we thank the many artists, staff members and audiences whose enthusiasm and tireless generosity make the festival possible.”

Looking to plan your own fireworks extravaganza?

If you’re holding an event and are looking for a fittingly fantastic finale, get in touch with the team at 1st Galaxy on 0115 8559000 to start planning your fireworks display.