January Festivals
Burns Night: is another important cultural celebration occurring throughout the country. It is held in late January annually, with traditional suppers held to honour the Scottish poet Robert Burns, in honour of his life and works. Many venues in Edinburgh hold special ‘Burns Night’ events. March/April Festivals
Edinburgh International Science Festival: every Easter, Edinburgh is transformed into a massive experimental venue for discovery and exploration, accompanied by non-stop shows and demonstrations, activities, entertainment, exhibitions and workshops. Science and technology events and exhibits encourage participation in areas such as the inner body, outer space, planet earth and the world of modern gadgets. May Festivals
Edinburgh Marathon: is an annual fundraiser for a host of area charities. First held in May of 1999 in Fife, participation is linked with entry to the London Marathon and Great North Run. Its course of 26.2 miles includes parts of Edinburgh’s historical areas. June Festivals
Edinburgh Royal Highland Show: the rich and varied agricultural heritage of the Edinburgh area and the Scottish Highlands is showcased at this well-attended show that’s held annually in June. The Edinburgh Festival: is considered by many to be among the top celebrations of the arts anywhere in the world. The Festival has been held for more than 50 years, during the warm and welcoming summer months. Artists, writers, musicians and many performers come to the city from all corners of the world for this extravaganza. It’s important to book accommodation well in advance as the number of visitors as well as participants is really incredible. Many venues throughout the city are transformed into a theatre, gallery or exhibition hall during this time. A stroll down the Royal Mile will give you an idea of what’s in store, as performers give free previews of the many shows; hopefully helping you make your decisions about what to take in. Participating groups includes the Massed Bands of the Royal Air Force and the Queen’s Colour Squadron, as well as drummers and pipers from Scotland’s most renowned fighting regiments. Music from the battlefield, highland dancers in traditional regalia and fireworks spectaculars all feature and the Tattoo ends with the soul-haunting sound of the Lone Piper playing on the ramparts of the Castle. Edinburgh Fringe Festival: began in 1947, as an alternative to the mainstream activities. It has developed into a significant part of the festival itself. It began when unofficial theatre groups came to offer performances ‘on the fringe’ of the main events. Edinburgh International Book Festival: the gardens in Edinburgh undergo a transformation each year when enchanting tented villages are set up to house the most unique literary event in the world. The International Book Festival presents a great variety of programmes for both adults and children, and includes a range of activities including debates and discussions, book signings, storytelling and writing workshops. Book lovers have the opportunity to meet many of their favourite authors, meet and learn about new writers and of course, to buy lots of books. October Festivals
Scottish International Storytelling Festival: is held annually and features well-known Scottish and international storytellers, sharing a variety of folk and fairy tales from many countries around the world. Recent themes have involved folklore of Ireland and Scotland and inspiring stories taken from life in Edinburgh. Events that will appeal to adults as well as children take place at the city’s top tourist attractions, including Edinburgh Castle, the Scottish Storytelling Centre and Trinity House. December Festivals
Hogmanay: is the Scottish celebration of the New Year. Every year at New Year’s Eve, the city comes alive with events that include private parties, special festivities at many venues and a huge street party in the centre of Edinburgh. | 
