Edinburgh Edinburgh Festival

A fabulous range of art and entertainment

Renowned for its sheer range of events, covering every conceivable performing art, the Edinburgh Festival is held each August and is considered to be the largest arts festival in the world. The city is transformed into a hive of theatrical activity, with streets buzzing with dramatic performances, musicians and colourful performance art. Tracing its origins back to the post-war years, the Edinburgh Festival is, in fact, a collection of several simultaneous festivals which include theatre, comedy, music, dance, literature, film, and television. Attended by ever increasing numbers, the festival is exceedingly popular and offers something for absolutely everyone.

Challenging and thought-provoking entertainment

The beauty of the Edinburgh Festival for most people is in its vibrant fringe, which provides an outlet for unknown and untested performers, and shows considered too challenging for the mainstream. Many now famous performers have been discovered at the fringe, and it remains a fertile breeding ground for new talent, while continuing to produce thought-provoking and stimulating entertainment. Family-friendly entertainment is also in abundance, with a dizzying variety of shows that include puppetry, pantomime and interactive street performances where youngsters can join in.

A truly international event

Throughout the Edinburgh Festival, many special open-air evening events take place, which are attended by incredibly large numbers, such as the renowned Edinburgh Military Tattoo, classical concerts and dazzling fireworks. The city’s nightlife comes alive like never before, with bars and clubs packed with revellers enjoying a cosmopolitan atmosphere at numerous special festival events and impromptu performances of drama, dance and music. Throughout the city – day and night, you can just feel the buzz and energy, as performers and visitors from every corner of the globe add a colourful mix to an elegant city.