When you think of Edinburgh festivals, the Fringe pops into your head first. Rightfully so, given its incredible energy!
However, Fringe represents just one of many international festivals that call Scotland’s capital home, alongside numerous smaller experiences and Edinburgh music festivals throughout the year.
Read our guide for more on some of the unmissable annual Edinburgh festivals.
Popular Edinburgh Festivals & Events Year-Round
Put on your comfiest shoes, charge your phone and grab the schedules of Big Bus and public transport!
It’s time to work out your festival itinerary for the various festivals around the capital.
1. Edinburgh International Children’s Festival
Between the last week of May and the first week of June
This International Children’s Festival delivers nine days of world-class theatre and dance for young audiences. With shows across the city and free pop-up performances, it’s a joyful celebration that tackles big themes in accessible ways.
2. Pride Edinburgh
Third Saturday in June
As one of the earliest summer festivals Edinburgh [“in Edinburgh”], Pride Edinburgh spruces up the city with pops of colour and community spirit. More than 40,000 people join parades, drag shows, live performances and family events.
3. Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival
Mid-July
For ten days in July, Edinburgh swings to the sound of jazz and blues. Since 1978, the festival has welcomed Scottish talent and international stars alike, filling over 100 venues across the city.
4. Deadinburgh Festival
Second weekend of July
Deadinburgh is an alternative culture and music festival in Edinburgh, celebrated with a playful, dramatic edge. Expect live bands, DJs, gothic markets and a mini horror film festival.
5. Edinburgh Food Festival
Late July
George Square Gardens becomes foodie central each July, serving everything from haggis to modern Scottish flavours. This free food festivals in Edinburgh is a relaxed, family-friendly celebration of Scotland’s culinary creativity.
6. Edinburgh International Festival
August
Launched in 1947, the Edinburgh International Festival presents world-class opera, theatre, dance, musicals and music in the city every August. For three weeks, audiences of all ages can enjoy a curated programme that showcases the best of global culture.
7. Edinburgh Festival Fringe
August
The Fringe transforms Edinburgh into the world’s largest stage each August. From stand-up comedy to physical theatre, circus and street performances, Fringe is a chaotic and utterly unforgettable experience.
8. Edinburgh Art Festival
August
Since 2004, the Edinburgh Art Festival has showcased thought-provoking exhibitions across the city. From national galleries to outdoor spaces, emerging and established artists present visitors with a fresh perspective on contemporary visual art.
9. Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
August
Staged on the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade, the Tattoo is a spectacular mix of music, dance and military tradition. Featuring over 1,000 performers from around the world, it’s an unforgettable August highlight.
10. Edinburgh International Book Festival
Mid-August
As the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature, it’s no surprise that Edinburgh hosts a premier book festival. Each August, readers gather for author talks, signings and workshops, enjoying everything from big-name writers to exciting new voices.
11. Edinburgh International Film Festival
August
The Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) celebrates the best of global cinema with a Scottish heart. Enjoy intimate “In Conversation” events with leading filmmakers and experience rising stars through its two audience-voted competitions.
Explore more Edinburgh festivals and summer experiences you won’t want to miss while you are in the capital.
Big Bus Tours: Catch Edinburgh Festivals While Exploring!
Stay in the festival atmosphere when you board a Big Bus Tour to explore the capital. Hop on and hop off our open-top bus at the convenient stops to attend popular festivals in Edinburgh throughout the year.
Why you’d want to hop on board:
- Audio commentary available in nine languages with free headphones included
- Most convenient and affordable route to/from Edinburgh Airport via Bright Bus Airport Express
- Pet-friendly buses
- Fully wheelchair-accessible fleet
- Kiddos under four ride free when travelling with a ticketed adult
Download the free Big Bus mobile app for live bus tracking and to find nearby venues for the various Edinburgh festivals!