The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo returned for its landmark 75th edition, honouring the heroes who have shaped its remarkable legacy. This year’s Show, The Heroes Who Made Us, blended military precision, cultural heritage, and artistic brilliance to celebrate the selflessness and dedication of those who have contributed to the Tattoo over the past seven decades. This special anniversary performance paid tribute to the Tattoo’s rich history while embracing its thrilling future.
The British Army took the Lead Service role this year, joined by a diverse international cast and anchored by the world-class Tattoo performers. With over 900 performers from across the globe, audiences were treated to an extraordinary journey through time and tradition, featuring talent from the Poland, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Ukraine, and the United States of America. Blending pageantry with theatrical flair, the 2025 Tattoo reaffirmed its position as a unique highlight of the world-renowned Edinburgh festivals. Celebrating values of connection, community, and shared heritage, this year’s performance reflects the enduring spirit that has defined the Tattoo for 75 years – while looking forward to its exciting future.
A performance unlike any other in the world
First across the drawbridge, as is tradition every year, The Massed Pipes and Drums once again filled the hallowed stage of the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade. Comprised of military and civilian pipe bands from across the globe, they set the tone for a performance unlike any other in the world. In a year dedicated to honouring heroes, The Orchestra of Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, travelled to Edinburgh, leaving Ukraine for the first time since 2018, due to the challenges of Covid and war to perform an unforgettable set for Tattoo audiences.
Making their Tattoo debut, the United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps will brought a slice of American history to Edinburgh with their iconic uniforms and stirring music. Also from America, the United States Air Force Honor Guard returned to showcase their unmatched precision and dedication. Adding further international flair, the Representative Band of the Polish Border Guard graced the Esplanade for the first time in 15 years.
Brisbane and Auckland
Adding something extra special this year, narration returned in the form of evocative storytelling performed by actor Terence Rae. Audiences were taken on a journey through the rich history of this iconic event, tracing its roots all the way back to its beginnings in 1950. Alan Lane, Creative Director at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “We don’t talk about heroes enough in this country. Whether this is military service or volunteers within our society, it is these people that help make life tick along that little bit more smoothly and that deserves to be honoured and celebrated. We are in such a unique position that we get to do performances as grand as the Tattoo and that’s why this year, we’re embracing our position at the top of the Castle (quite literally) during the Edinburgh festivals. The Heroes Who Made Us, is a testimony to the artistic nature of the Tattoo and will come with all the bells and whistles that people know us for.”
Jason Barrett, Chief Executive of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo added: “As we do every year, the Show features inspiring acts from around the world. This year we are especially privileged to welcome The Naval Orchestra of Ukraine, the first time they will have left their country since 2018. We couldn’t be more excited to celebrate our 75th, honouring our past while imagining our future. Early in 2026 we take the Show to Brisbane and Auckland – Tattoo 75 on tour bringing The Heroes Who Made Us halfway around the world.”
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, The Heroes Who Made Us, comes to Brisbane February 12-15th and Auckland February 19-21st. For details see: www.edintattoobrisbane.com.au or www.edintattooauckland.co.nz.