The Complete Guide to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival

If you're visiting Edinburgh in August, you're in for something special. Every year, the city comes alive as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes over Edinburgh! There are performances in the streets, theatres, pubs and even parks with performers from around the world.

Whether you've planned your trip around the Fringe or you've only just realised it's taking place during your visit, this guide will help you make the most of your time in the city.

What is the Edinburgh Fringe Festival?

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is the world's largest arts festival, attracting performers and visitors from across the globe every August. It all began in 1947 when a group of performers, who weren't part of the official Edinburgh International Festival, decided to put on their own shows around the city. Those performances took place on the "fringe" of the main festival, giving the event its name. Today, the Fringe includes thousands of performances across hundreds of venues, from large theatres to intimate rooms above pubs. You'll find everything from stand-up comedy and theatre to musicals, circus acts, magic shows, family entertainment and spoken word performances.

One of the best things about the Fringe is that no two visits are ever the same. You could watch a world-famous comedian one evening and discover your new favourite performer in a tiny venue the next.

When is the Fringe?

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes place throughout August, with performances running every day for around three weeks.

If you're flexible with your travel dates, each week offers something slightly different.

The opening week is usually a little quieter, making it easier to get tickets and find accommodation. By the second week, the festival is in full swing, performers have settled into their shows, and the atmosphere across the city is fantastic. The final weekend is the busiest, with huge crowds and many popular shows selling out well in advance.

If you're visiting Edinburgh for the first time, we'd recommend coming during the second week. You'll experience everything the Fringe has to offer without quite the same level of crowds as the closing weekend.

Where does it all happen?

Honestly everywhere!

There are over 600 Fringe venues across Edinburgh, but The Royal Mile and Edinburgh's Old Town becomes the heart of the festival. There are constant street performers that draw  crowds throughout the day. It's worth spending some time walking up and down The Royal Mile, even if you don't have any shows booked, as there's always something happening.

Many of the biggest Fringe venues are within walking distance of each other, including:

• Pleasance Courtyard
• Assembly Festival
• Underbelly
• Gilded Balloon
• Summerhall



But don't just stick to the famous venues. Some of the most memorable performances take place in smaller spaces tucked away down side streets or above local pubs.

Something I have enjoyed most over the years is the short sharp comedy shows that feature 5-10 comedians in a short space of time. I always book at least one as you get a flavour of the comedians and can decide if you want to attend their longer shows. I've attended both Irish and Scottish themed ones and the crowd engagement is sometimes just as entertaining as the comedians!

My Top Tips for Visiting the Fringe

Book accommodation as early as possible

August is Edinburgh's busiest month, and hotels, apartments and guesthouses fill up quickly. Prices also increase significantly the closer you get to the festival, so booking early can save you a considerable amount.

Book some shows - but not every hour

The full Fringe programme is released in June and includes thousands of performances.

It's worth booking a few shows that you really want to see, but don't fill every gap in your itinerary. Some of the best experiences come from wandering through the city and deciding to watch something you've only just heard about.

Wear comfortable shoes

Edinburgh is one of the UK's most walkable cities, but it's also built on hills and cobbled streets. You'll probably cover more miles than you expect, especially if you're moving between venues throughout the day. I can say as well after a few drinks at each venue you'll thank yourself for your footwear choice!

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

While the Fringe takes over much of the city, August is also home to another of Edinburgh's most famous events - The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo takes place on the Esplanade of Edinburgh Castle and is one of Scotland's most spectacular live performances. Featuring military bands, pipers, dancers and performers from around the world, it's an unforgettable evening set against one of the country's most iconic landmarks. Every year the theme changes wether it be Military, Navy, or anything in between you will see a phenomenal performance and if you're lucky it will be closed with an overhead flight from our outstanding pilots.

Tickets sell out months in advance, so if you're hoping to attend, it's well worth booking before you travel.

Don't Forget to Explore Edinburgh

With so much going on, it's easy to spend every day rushing from one show to the next. But the Fringe is only one part of what makes Edinburgh such an incredible city. Take time to wander down the Royal Mile, visit Edinburgh Castle, explore Victoria Street, climb Calton Hill or discover Dean Village. These are the places that make people fall in love with Edinburgh, and they're all within reach of the festival.

If you'd like to learn more about the city's history, a guided walking tour is the perfect way to see the highlights while hearing the stories behind them. Many visitors combine a walking tour during the day with Fringe performances in the evening, making the most of everything Edinburgh has to offer.

Planning Your Visit?

Whether you're visiting Edinburgh for the Fringe Festival, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo or simply exploring Scotland's capital, we'd love to help you experience the city beyond the guidebooks.

Our private walking tours cover the history, hidden closes and famous landmarks that make Edinburgh one of Europe's most fascinating cities. They're the perfect way to start your visit before heading off to enjoy everything the Fringe has to offer.

Explore our Edinburgh walking tours and book your guide today.