The much-anticipated annual outdoor light and sound spectacular in Pitlochry has been forced to cancel its Friday and Saturday evening performances, as powerful gusts from Storm Amy swept across Perthshire. Organisers of the immersive woodland event cited significant concerns for public safety as the primary reason behind the difficult decision, leaving many visitors from across the region and beyond disheartened.
This marks the second consecutive night that the enchanting display, a highlight of Perthshire’s autumn calendar, has been called off. The initial cancellation for Friday evening was announced as Storm Amy approached, bringing with it unseasonably strong winds and heavy downpours. The continued adverse weather conditions throughout Saturday necessitated the extension of the cancellation, impacting hundreds of ticket holders eager to experience the magical forest illuminations. Public Safety Remains Paramount
A spokesperson for the charitable trust behind the event expressed profound disappointment regarding the closures. “We are absolutely devastated to have to call off our magnificent show for a second night,” they stated, acknowledging the inconvenience caused to patrons who had planned their visits, many travelling a considerable distance to be part of the experience. The organisers emphasised that the welfare of their guests and staff is their utmost priority, and the decision, though regrettable, was made with the safety of everyone in mind. They highlighted the extensive planning and effort that goes into creating such a unique experience, underscoring the gravity of choosing to cancel.
The intricate light installations, dynamic soundscapes, and theatrical elements that transform the Faskally Wood into a breathtaking nocturnal wonderland are susceptible to extreme weather. High winds, in particular, pose a considerable risk to both the temporary structures and the natural environment, making safe operation impossible. Ensuring all pathways remain clear and the installations are secure requires stable weather conditions, which Storm Amy has unfortunately made unavailable. What This Means for Ticket Holders
Patrons who held tickets for either the cancelled Friday or Saturday performances will be directly contacted by the event team. They will be offered the choice of a full refund or the opportunity to reschedule their visit for an alternative date later in the 2025 season. The organisers urged those who are able to consider transferring their tickets, noting their desire for everyone to still witness the spectacular show that has been meticulously prepared throughout the year.
Pitlochry, a vibrant town nestled in the heart of Perthshire, relies heavily on tourism, particularly during popular events like this. The cancellations undoubtedly present challenges for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and other visitor attractions, which often experience a significant boost in trade during the festival period. However, the community generally understands that safety must always come first, even when it means foregoing economic benefits. Looking Ahead: Sunday’s Performance
Despite the recent disruptions, there remains a beacon of hope for upcoming performances. A yellow weather warning for wind, issued by the Met Office, is expected to remain in place until midday on Sunday, October 5. However, if conditions improve as anticipated, Sunday evening’s performance is currently slated to proceed as planned. Visitors intending to attend on Sunday or any subsequent dates are strongly advised to check the official event website for the latest updates before travelling, as weather patterns in the Highlands can be unpredictable.
The organisers continue to monitor the weather forecasts closely, hoping for a return to more favourable conditions that will allow the remainder of the event to dazzle and delight. The resilience of the Perthshire community, accustomed to the vagaries of Scottish weather, suggests that many will eagerly await the chance to once again immerse themselves in the magic of Pitlochry’s premier autumn attraction.
This marks the second consecutive night that the enchanting display, a highlight of Perthshire’s autumn calendar, has been called off. The initial cancellation for Friday evening was announced as Storm Amy approached, bringing with it unseasonably strong winds and heavy downpours. The continued adverse weather conditions throughout Saturday necessitated the extension of the cancellation, impacting hundreds of ticket holders eager to experience the magical forest illuminations. Public Safety Remains Paramount
A spokesperson for the charitable trust behind the event expressed profound disappointment regarding the closures. “We are absolutely devastated to have to call off our magnificent show for a second night,” they stated, acknowledging the inconvenience caused to patrons who had planned their visits, many travelling a considerable distance to be part of the experience. The organisers emphasised that the welfare of their guests and staff is their utmost priority, and the decision, though regrettable, was made with the safety of everyone in mind. They highlighted the extensive planning and effort that goes into creating such a unique experience, underscoring the gravity of choosing to cancel.
The intricate light installations, dynamic soundscapes, and theatrical elements that transform the Faskally Wood into a breathtaking nocturnal wonderland are susceptible to extreme weather. High winds, in particular, pose a considerable risk to both the temporary structures and the natural environment, making safe operation impossible. Ensuring all pathways remain clear and the installations are secure requires stable weather conditions, which Storm Amy has unfortunately made unavailable. What This Means for Ticket Holders
Patrons who held tickets for either the cancelled Friday or Saturday performances will be directly contacted by the event team. They will be offered the choice of a full refund or the opportunity to reschedule their visit for an alternative date later in the 2025 season. The organisers urged those who are able to consider transferring their tickets, noting their desire for everyone to still witness the spectacular show that has been meticulously prepared throughout the year.
Pitlochry, a vibrant town nestled in the heart of Perthshire, relies heavily on tourism, particularly during popular events like this. The cancellations undoubtedly present challenges for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and other visitor attractions, which often experience a significant boost in trade during the festival period. However, the community generally understands that safety must always come first, even when it means foregoing economic benefits. Looking Ahead: Sunday’s Performance
Despite the recent disruptions, there remains a beacon of hope for upcoming performances. A yellow weather warning for wind, issued by the Met Office, is expected to remain in place until midday on Sunday, October 5. However, if conditions improve as anticipated, Sunday evening’s performance is currently slated to proceed as planned. Visitors intending to attend on Sunday or any subsequent dates are strongly advised to check the official event website for the latest updates before travelling, as weather patterns in the Highlands can be unpredictable.
The organisers continue to monitor the weather forecasts closely, hoping for a return to more favourable conditions that will allow the remainder of the event to dazzle and delight. The resilience of the Perthshire community, accustomed to the vagaries of Scottish weather, suggests that many will eagerly await the chance to once again immerse themselves in the magic of Pitlochry’s premier autumn attraction.