Every year, Edinburgh hosts several world-renowned festivals and celebrations. Whether taking in shows from up-and-coming artists, perusing artefacts from across the world, or joining up with others for a massive street party, expats are sure to find plenty to do at Edinburgh's festivals.
The city has a vibrant year-round arts scene, bringing the stage to life with numerous concerts, plays, operas, dance, as well as a buzzing film sphere.
Annual events in Edinburgh
Edinburgh Fringe Festival (August)
One of the year's most exciting events, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is the world's largest arts festival, playing host to more than 50,000 performances over three weeks. The festival is open to all, meaning that any performers are welcome. The Fringe Festival holds a legendary status among artsy Brits and has been instrumental in launching the careers of many performers and comedians, such as Billy Connolly, Rowan Atkinson and Eddie Izzard.
Edinburgh International Festival (August)
The world-renowned Edinburgh International Festival is a constant and continuous flux of creative energy that takes hold of the Scottish capital for three weeks a year. The festival itself, now more than 70 years old, is not so much one large celebration as it is many microcosms of an artistic endeavour. Nearly every public place is transformed into a venue of some sort and plays host to a curated range of performances, from opera and classical music to theatre and dance.
Doors Open Day (September)
Every September, Edinburgh opens its doors to some of its best (and some obscure) attractions for free. This is a great time to take advantage of the free admission to see some of the city's great historic buildings.
St. Andrew's Day (November)
Celebrate St. Andrew’s Day with traditional Scottish music and storytelling events held alongside bustling markets selling local crafts, food, and drink.
Edinburgh's Christmas (November/December)
Beginning on the last Thursday in November and continuing to the New Year, there is a fabulous German Christmas Market on the Mound. East Princes Street Gardens are also transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with carnival rides, food stands and gift shops to celebrate Edinburgh’s Christmas.
Hogmanay (December)
Nothing ushers in the new year like Edinburgh's Hogmanay celebration. Once a makeshift street festival, organisers have taken Hogmanay by the horns and transformed it into a slick event headlined by international musicians and broadcast throughout the country. A massive midnight fireworks display marks the New Year.
Expat Health Insurance
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