Edinburgh Taxi Outing hailed a success as city leaders back future of cherished tradition
- Perry Richardson
- Jun 10
- 3 min read
The annual Edinburgh Taxi Outing returned in spectacular fashion this year, with dozens of brightly decorated taxis parading through the city streets as hundreds of children enjoyed one of Scotland’s most cherished community events.
The event, which has been a fixture in Edinburgh’s calendar since the 1940s, once again saw taxi drivers volunteer their time, vehicles and fundraising efforts to provide a memorable day out for local children.
Crowds gathered along the route to watch the colourful convoy make its way through the Capital, with water balloons, water pistols and elaborate taxi decorations adding to the celebrations.
Reflecting on the success of the 2026 outing, City of Edinburgh Council Leader Jane Meagher praised the efforts of the city’s taxi trade and volunteers.
Council Leader and Lord Provost praise volunteer cabbies and community spirit after another memorable Edinburgh Taxi Outing
Meagher said: “I am absolutely delighted that the annual Edinburgh Taxi Outing has gone ahead as planned. Once again, our cabbies have raised the bar with their fantastic taxi decorations and my thanks to them, and all those who volunteer to make this such a special day for Edinburgh children.”
She added: “It was such a wonderful sight to see the parade of taxis making its way through our streets – they were clearly enjoying soaking all of the bystanders with water balloons and pistols! As ever, it was fun, hilarious, uplifting and wet! I am sure lasting memories have been made for everyone involved.”
The Edinburgh Taxi Outing remains one of the most enduring examples of the taxi trade’s contribution to local communities. Generations of drivers have participated in the event, which relies heavily on fundraising, sponsorship and volunteer support to continue each year.
Highlighting the importance of the outing to Edinburgh residents, Meagher said: “This very special event has been a firm fixture in Edinburgh’s calendar since the 40s. It means so much to many people and seeing the smiles, excitement and community spirit on display reinforced just how special it is.”
She also underlined the council’s commitment to supporting the event in future, adding: “Personally, I have fond memories of the event over many years and attending with my own daughter. We will do everything we can to ensure this cherished tradition continues for many years to come.”
City of Edinburgh Lord Provost Robert Aldridge also paid tribute to everyone involved after taking part in the parade.
Aldridge said: “The annual Taxi Outing Parade is one of my personal highlights of the year - even if I do get soaked! It is a real pleasure to take part in the parade and present rosettes to the best decorated taxi and best fancy-dress costume.”
The Lord Provost highlighted both the experience for participating children and the wider public appeal of the event, saying: “I’m sure all those children and drivers taking part had a fantastic day, but it’s also a brilliant sight for the many spectators who line the streets to cheer it on.”
His comments come after widespread public backing for the outing in recent months, with many residents and supporters expressing the importance of maintaining the long-running tradition.
“The recent outpouring of support has shown just how much this wonderful event means to people, and I’m sure it will continue long into the future,” Aldridge added.
