The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo officially kicked off in front of a sold out audience of 8,800 people on Thursday.

Showcasing a phenomenal mix of military pageantry, music, dance, technical wizardry and special effects brings together contingents from across the world.

The Herald:

(Photo: Mar Owens)

Taking place from August 5 - 27, the 2016 military spectacle is set to pay tribute to Her Majesty The Queen's 90th year, mark the anniversary of The Battle of Jutland and the Great Arab Revolt and marking the rich history of military music in Tunes of Glory.

Against the spectacular backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, Scotland’s top tourist attraction will see a cast of over 1,200 performers, over 250 pipers and drummers, Jordanian cavalry soldier, five British Military Bands and one or two incredible surprises - including a family favourite musical performance from the US Army Europe Band.

The Herald:

(Photo: Mar Owens)

Highlights this year include:

The Jordanian Royal Guard, Band and Drill Team will join this year’s cast to mark 100 years since the Great Arab Revolt and tell the story of one of history’s most famous battles.

A magical snowfall across the Esplanade and as Mount Everest is revealed on Edinburgh Castle, the Nepal Army Band will celebrate their homeland and links with the United Kingdom.

The Herald:

(Photo: Mar Owens)

Tattoo favourites, the 38-strong Imps Motorcycle Display Team will return for another year, riding to their own ‘Tunes of Glory’.

Everyone’s favourite, Massed Pipes and Drums will make a thunderous return as the sounds of eleven Regimental and Commonwealth bands, comprising over 250 pipers & drummers, tuned to perfection, will ring out across the capital.

The Royal Air Force, will open the show in spectacular style with an impressive flypast on selected evenings.