Five things you need to know today
Trump, Giant Lanterns, Community walk on the Trinity path, Go Citizen and Andy Goldsworthy
Presidential visit
The President of the United States is visiting Scotland from today until around Tuesday. His whereabouts are largely unknown except that he is not due to visit Edinburgh. But there are no fly zones around Turnberry and Aberdeen where he is expected to visit two of his Scottish golf course and meet with the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, and the First Minister, John Swinney.
Mr Swinney said that Scotland will have “a platform to make its voice heard” during the President's visit.
He said: “Scotland shares a strong friendship with the United States that goes back centuries. That partnership remains steadfast through economic, cultural and ancestral links – including of course, with the President himself.
“As we welcome the President of the United States, Scotland will be showcased on the world stage. This provides Scotland with a platform to make its voice heard on the issues that matter, including war and peace, justice and democracy.
“It also includes the millions of Americans – many of them potential future tourists or investors in Scotland – who will watch their elected President as he visits our country.
“As First Minister it is my responsibility to advance our interests, raise global and humanitarian issues of significant importance, including the unimaginable suffering we are witnessing in Gaza, and ensure Scotland’s voice is heard at the highest levels of government across the world. That is exactly what I will do when I meet with President Trump during his time in Scotland.
“We are a proud democratic nation, a country that stands firm on the principles of equality and freedom for all, and a society that stands up for a fair and just world. The right to peaceful demonstration is something we cherish, and everyone has the democratic right to protect and express their views in a peaceful, and democratic manner. That is right and proper.
“I am confident the vast majority of people protesting will do Scotland proud and demonstrate as they should – peacefully and lawfully. I am also confident that Scotland’s police service can handle the challenge of keeping all our communities safe and, as they must, in maintaining the appropriate security any US President requires.
“This weekend is a landmark moment in our relationship with the United States, and I am certain it will be remembered for Scotland showing the world the very best of itself.”
The Secretary of State for Scotland may also meet President Trump. The Rt Hon Ian Murray told the BBC that "the details are still being worked out", but confirmed that he would give the President a warm welcome as it is in the national interest.
On Saturday a protest is scheduled to take place outside the US Consulate on Regent Terrace at noon. Global Justice Now has called for people to attend with banners, placards and voices saying: "Let's resist Trump's politics of hatred, division and authoritarianism.
Giant Lanterns coming to Edinburgh Zoo
For the first time since 2019, Giant Lanterns have landed at Edinburgh Zoo. More than 100 lanterns arrived this week, with more to come over the next few moths before the illuminated trail launches in November.
Following its six-year hiatus, the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s (RZSS) long-awaited and hugely popular bespoke trail is back this winter with a brand-new theme. The wildlife conservation charity’s visitors can expect to be transported under the sea, where weird and wonderful creatures wander the waves. Over 600 lanterns will shine a tide of light on incredible wildlife that is rarely seen, from shimmering jellyfish and playful dolphins to legendary beasts of the deep.
From 14 November 2025 to 22 February 2026, across 60 nights, the family-friendly event promises to be more dazzling than ever. Early bird discounted tickets on sale now for a limited time at edinburghzoo.org.uk/lanterns.
No Birds Land tour on 28 July
Tamsin Grainger welcomes anyone who wants to go with her on a free community walk on Monday 28 July along the Trinity Path to have a breath of fresh air.
"Join the Drylaw Neighbourhood Monday Morning Walking Group and me for a tour on 28th July of the Trinity Path. You will learn about and listen to the No Birds Land soundwalk (funded by RSPB and Sustrans, shortlisted for a Sound Walk September Award) and Trinity area local history. Meet either at the Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre at 10am (free return bus) or at the path entrance on Trinity Rd near the junction with Lower Granton Road. What3Words///since.page.tells at 10.45am.
"Ends approx. 12.15 at Trinity /back at DNC by 1pm.
"Bring a packed lunch and drink, plus something to sit on and keep you dry in the event of showers."
Free access to GoCitizen
Members of Edinburgh Libraries now have free access to GoCitizen(www.edinburgh.gov.uk/gocitizen). This helps users prepare for the Life in the UK test or British Citizenship test. GoCitizen includes an online version of the latest official study materials licensed from the Home Office, plus hundreds of practice test questions in the same format as the official test.
It can be used from home or the library and all you need is library membership to use it – join at any of Edinburgh public library (www.edinburgh.gov.uk/libraryopeninghours) or online(www.edinburgh.gov.uk/joinourlibrary). Already a citizen? Have a go for fun, you might be surprised what you don’t know! For any questions regarding this service please contact informationdigital@edinburgh.gov.uk
Andy Goldsworthy: Fifty Years
This Saturday, the largest ever indoor exhibition by Andy Goldsworthy will open to the public, taking over the National Galleries of Scotland in the heart of Edinburgh. Featuring over 200 works, the show will include major installations made in response to the iconic Royal Scottish Academy (RSA) building, as well as drawings, photographs, films, sketchbooks and archival items dating back to the mid-1970s and spanning fifty years. Sure to be one of the most talked-about art events of the year and only to be seen in Edinburgh. Brought to you by the National Galleries of Scotland, Andy Goldsworthy: Fifty Years opens on Saturday 26 July 2025. Tickets are on sale now.
Andy Goldsworthy: Fifty Years
National Galleries Scotland exhibition at the Royal Scottish Academy building
26 July – 2 November 2025
Andy Goldsworthy | Fifty Years | National Galleries of Scotland
