More than £2 million has already been raised through the event, which aims to start a movement to end homelessness
Thousands of people will brave the cold this weekend in Scotland’s biggest ever sleepout event.
More than 8,000 people will head to Princes Street Gardens on Saturday 9 December for Sleep in the Park.
The event, created by Social Bite in a bid to kick-start a campaign to end homelessness in Scotland, is estimated to have raised more than £2 million so far.
The night will feature a spectacular live concert with stripped back, acoustic performances from Liam Gallagher, Deacon Blue, Amy Macdonald and Frightened Rabbit. After the music, participants bed down for a cold night in the open.
Social Bite co-founder Josh Littlejohn said he had been taken aback by the fundraising efforts so far.
He said: "I’m blown away by the support of the people of Scotland. To have more than 8,000 people signed up to take part in the event is just incredible. Those taking part are joining a movement to end homelessness in Scotland for good.”
Comedian Rob Brydon will be hosting the event, John Cleese will be performing a special bedtime story and attendees will also hear from Sir Bob Geldof on his support for the cause. Sir Bob will also be joining participants and sleeping out with a host of other celebrities, sports personalities and figures from across Scotland’s political parties.
With temperatures forecast to drop as low as minus two, participants will be allowed to use a sleeping bag and a plastic sheet, but will not be allowed to sleep under cover. Although hot food and drinks will be available throughout the night, alcohol will not be allowed at the event.
Organiser Penny Dougherty said: “We’re asking everybody attending to wrap up well and come prepared for the weather. It’s going to be cold night for a worthy cause, but we have the biggest line-up of artists ever to perform in Princes Street Gardens to get everyone warmed-up before the sleepout challenge.”
