More than 4200 Humanist weddings took place in Scotland last year, more than ever before.
Humanist Society Scotland conducted over three quarters of all Humanist marriages in Scotland, with others being conducted by independent providers.
Humanist Society Scotland secured a change in policy back in 2005 which allowed Scotland to become one of the first countries in the world to allow Humanist weddings.
As well as providing high-quality, personalised ceremonies HSS, a Registered Charity, also campaigns to promote Humanism and Humanist values of human rights, democracy and equality.
Commenting on the release of the statistics, Lynsey Kidd – HSS Head of Ceremonies and Chaplaincy, said:
“We are delighted to see that Humanist weddings continue to grow in popularity. Our Registered Celebrants across Scotland are ambassadors for Humanism and work hard to ensure that life’s big milestones are celebrated in a meaningful way.
“As the original, and most popular organisation for Humanist ceremonies in Scotland it’s really encouraging to see the growth of these wonderful ceremonies.”
You might also like:
- It’s time for equal civil partnerships to be made available
- HSS Celebrants complete Naming Ceremony training
- A Humanist William Wallace Wedding at the National Wallace Monument
- HSS to join Scottish Working Group on Funeral Poverty
Notes: For further information or comment please contact Gary McLelland on gary@humanism.scot or 07813060713.
Figures from National Records of Scotland show that 4290 weddings were conducted by Humanists in 2015, up from 3933 in 2014.
There were more Humanist weddings in Scotland last year than any religious denomination, including the Church of Scotland.
The Scottish Government have yet to introduce remaining parts of the 2014 Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act which would define which belief groups are able to conduct marriages.
About HSS:
Humanist Society Scotland seeks to represent the views of people in Scotland who wish to lead ethical and fulfilling lives guided by reason, empathy and compassion. We provide a range of non-religious ceremonies and campaign for a secular state. HSS has over 14,000 members across Scotland.
Latest Related Stories
September 7, 2026
Humanist Society interview series: our Communications Manager Greg on his naming ceremony for son Bram
August 19, 2026
Humanist Society interview series: theatre director Maggie Kinloch on telling stories as a humanist celebrant
May 21, 2026
We’re accredited! European Humanist Wedding Standard
May 13, 2026