Blessed with a fine day the Edinburgh Jazz Festival 2009 got underway with a colourful parade from The City Chambers on the Royal Mile to the famous Grassmarket. There jazz bands on 3 mini stages and other street performances took place throught the afternoon delighting locals and holiday visitors alike.

Mardi Gras in Edinburgh's Grassmarket for the opening if the 2009 Edinburgh Jass Festival

Mardi Gras in Edinburgh's Grassmarket for the opening of the 2009 Edinburgh Jazz Festival