Under 16's must be accompanied by an adult. 

The latest in a series of different events to celebrate the Night Afore - 30 December - Light Night promises a breathtaking evening of fire and light, thanks to street theatre specialists Carabosse.  Though they're tight-lipped about exactly what's planned, a glance at the photographs on the French company's website suggests we're in for something both big and intriguing - backed up by a series of open-doors events right along the Royal Mile.

For this, Carabosse's Scottish premiere, they'll be taking over the squares around St Giles' Cathedral.  We can't tell you much more about this one, except to say that it should be worth seeing; dress warmly, and head down from 7pm to join the crowd.  Or if you can't make it on the 30th, the main event's running again on New Year's Day - this time from 4pm to 8pm.

Open Doors 

Several of the buildings along the Royal Mile are also opening up for Light Night, although - with the honourable exception of St Giles' Cathedral - all are charging handsomely for the privilege.

St Giles' Cathedral itself, normally home to contemplative choral music, will be offering a quite different programme this evening - thanks to a residence from Michael Begg and Colin Potter, locally-based leading lights of the avant garde.  Expect electronic music tailored to the cathedral at night.  Entry's free (though numbers may be limited).

Mary King's Close, just opposite the cathedral, is running a nighttime version of its "underground" tour from 7pm until 10pm; tickets, as for the daytime tours, are £10.50.  You can read more about the experience on their website and book directly with them on 0845 070 6244 (not available online).  This is a popular attraction, so advance planning's a good idea.

Further up the Royal Mile, the Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre is offering a whisky tasting (and "rare chance to view their collection") for £10; they're making a great deal of their crystal chandelier and marble floors, normally hidden from the hoi polloi and reserved for private functions.  Read more on their website and book with them on 0131 220 0441 (not available online).

At Edinburgh Castle itself, costumed performers will take you on an after-hours tour, promising "dramatic performances" and a few surprises.  This is an interesting opportunity to see the Castle after the crowds have gone home, and it costs no more than a normal ticket: £11 for adults, £8 concessions and £5.50 for children.  You have to book this one through Edinburgh's Hogmanay's ticket agent who, we're sorry to report, will sting you for a £1.50-a-ticket booking fee.

Finally, way down the other end of the Mile at the Netherbow, John Knox House will be open for torchlit ghost tours in the birthplace of the Scottish Reformation - kick-starting the commemorations for its 450th anniversary in 2010.  Tickets are £6 and can be booked on  0131 556 9579.