Edinburgh Festival Fringe

The World's Largest Arts Festival

Every August, Edinburgh transforms into a global stage for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world's largest arts festival. Thousands of performers from around the world bring an incredible variety of shows to Scotland's capital, ranging from stand-up comedy and theatre to cabaret, circus, opera, and experimental arts.

The Fringe began in 1947, when eight theatre companies turned up uninvited to perform alongside the first Edinburgh International Festival. Their "open to all" spirit has remained at the heart of the Fringe, where anyone can perform and anyone can attend.

The festival is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere. The Royal Mile in Edinburgh's Old Town becomes a buzzing hub of street performers, stilt-walkers, musicians, jugglers, and actors handing out flyers for their shows. The Fringe has it all if you're after laugh-out-loud comedy, thought-provoking drama, or unusual one-off performances.

Fringe Festival Scale

The size and diversity of the Fringe are unmatched with it stretching for three weeks during August annually:

• 2025 Highlights: Over 3,000 shows across 262 venues citywide.
• Genres: Comedy is the most popular, followed by theatre, music, dance, spoken word, and immersive experiences.

Some of the biggest names in entertainment have performed here, including Rowan Atkinson, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, and Eddie Izzard.

When & Where

• Dates: 1–25 August 2025
• Location: Across Edinburgh, in venues ranging from grand theatres such as McEwan Hall (pictured) and university halls to pop-up stages in pubs, cafés, and outdoor courtyards.

Special Programmes during the Festival

• Made in Scotland Showcase – Promotes Scottish artists to an international audience.
• Fringe of Colour – Highlights work by artists of colour and offers free tickets to improve inclusivity.

Tips for Visiting the Festival Fringe

• Book Early for Popular Shows – The biggest acts sell out quickly.
• Mix Ticketed & Free Shows – Great for variety and budget.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes – You'll be walking a lot between venues.
• Plan Accommodation Months in Advance – Hotels and rentals fill up fast.
• Be Weather Ready – August brings long daylight hours and surprise rain showers, so pack a waterproof.

Getting to Edinburgh

• By Train: Edinburgh Waverley Station is in the city centre, with many venues within walking distance.
• By Air: Edinburgh Airport is about 8 miles away, with tram, bus, and taxi connections to the centre.
• By Car: Parking is limited during the festival. Public transport is the best option.

Nearby Attractions

If you have extra time in the city, consider:

• Edinburgh Castle – Scotland's most famous fortress towering over the city.
• Arthur's Seat – A scenic hill walk for panoramic city views.
• St Giles' Cathedral – Just off the Royal Mile and worth visiting during the Fringe.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Edinburgh Fringe Festival?

Every August for three weeks. In 2025, it's 1–25 August.

Do I need tickets for the Fringe?

Some shows are free, but most ticketed shows can be booked online, at box offices, or through the official Fringe app.

Where can I find the programme?

The official programme is released in June each year and is available online and in print.

Can anyone perform at the Fringe?

Yes, it's an open-access festival, meaning anyone with a venue can take part.

Where is the Royal Mile in Edinburgh?

The Royal Mile is in Edinburgh's Old Town, stretching from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace.