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In pictures: Samhuinn Fire Festival marks change of season

Reuters A performer in an elaborate horned costume carries flaming staffs. Spectators stand in the background watching the display in the dark.Reuters
The Samhuinn Fire Festival is a modern reimagining of a Celtic tradition

Crowds gathered on Edinburgh's Calton Hill on Halloween night to celebrate the annual Samhuinn Fire Festival.

The ancient Celtic tradition marks the end of the warmer months and the start of the winter season.

Organisers said the "dramatic stand-off" between the summer and winter kings was brought to life by fire dancing, acrobatics, drumming and vibrant costumes.

It is the counterpart to the Beltane Fire Festival, which is held on 30 April.

Press Association Two costumed performers kneel facing each other on a grass. One performer reaches out while the other holds a flaming staff. Additional performers and a crowd of spectators are visible in the background.Press Association
It is inspired by the Celtic tales of the turning of the wheel
Press Association A performer wearing a carved horned mask and dark costume stands behind a flaming staff during a nighttime fire festival. Bright flames and drifting smoke illuminate the mask and costume, while other torch-bearing participants are visible in the dimly lit background.Press Association
Flames illuminated the performers' dark costumes
Press Association A procession of costumed performers carrying flaming torches walks at night overlooking a city. Participants wear theatrical robes, masks and face paint, while torchlight illuminates the group against the backdrop of city lights in the distance.Press Association
The procession took place on Edinburgh's Calton Hill
Press Association A performer wearing an ornate horned mask kneels beside a flaming torch during a nighttime fire festival. The figure is illuminated by firelight while a crowd of spectators watches from behind a barrier in the background.Press Association
Crowds gathered to watch the fire dancing, acrobatics and drumming
Reuters A masked performer holds a double-ended flaming staff during a nighttime fire festival. Bright orange flames and smoke illuminate the costume and long-beaked mask, while the dark background is lit by scattered torches and firelight.Reuters
It is hosted by the Beltane Fire Society, a community arts performance charity
Press Association A performer wearing an elaborate horned mask and feathered costume twirls a flaming staff during a nighttime fire festival. Flames rise above the mask and from the staff, lighting the performer and nearby participants, while spectators watch from the darkness in the background.Press Association
The festival was revived in 1988
Reuters A costumed fire performer wearing a horned mask raises a circular fire fan overhead during a nighttime festival. Multiple flames illuminate the performer and surrounding participants, while spectators and torchbearers stand in the background against the dark night sky.Reuters
It is the sister event of the Beltane Fire Festival which is held on 30 April