| , Various Locations Edinburgh | |
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| Edinburgh International Festival Website | |
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The Edinburgh International Festival was the inspired idea of Rudolf Bing, then the General Manager of Glyndebourne Opera, Henry Harvey Wood, the Head of the British Council in Scotland, and leaders from the City of Edinburgh. It was established in 1947 as a world class cultural event to bring together audiences and artists from around the world, and over 70 years has gone from strength to strength.
For three weeks in August, Scotland’s capital becomes an unparalleled celebration of the performing arts and an annual meeting point for people of all nations. The International Festival presents a programme featuring the finest performers and ensembles from the worlds of dance, opera, music and theatre.
Our impact extends beyond the annual programme: our community learning and engagement and professional development programmes run throughout the year, reaching the widest possible audiences and contributing to the cultural and social life of Edinburgh and Scotland.
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is one of the greatest celebrations of arts and culture on the planet.
READ MOREEdinburgh’s Hogmanay is back to celebrate the end of 2025 and the new year with an unforgettable experience for Edinburgh and beyond.
READ MOREA festival celebrating Edinburgh Gaelic community past and present. A' dèanamh fèill air coimhearsnachd Gàidhlig Dhùn Èideann.
READ MOREThe Saltire Festival returns for 2022 celebrating St. Andrew's Day in the Home of the Flag!
READ MOREThe Scottish International Storytelling Festival returns from 22nd October to 1st November 2025 with the theme 'Lights of the North'.
READ MOREThe 18th edition of Manipulate Festival will take place between 12th and 15th February 2025.
READ MORERare Books Edinburgh is a festival dedicated to rare, collectable and important books and the history of the book.
READ MOREEdinburgh's Christmas transforms the beautiful city centre with festive fun for all the family, including traditional Christmas Markets, funfair rides, spectacular live outdoor events and much more!
READ MOREEdinburgh Deaf Festival is an accessible celebration of deaf culture, language and heritage. Join us for a variety of performances and events throughout the week.
READ MOREThe very best traditional music from Scotland and around the world returns from 2nd to 12th May 2025.
READ MOREThe Edinburgh International University Film Festival (EIUFF), launching in 2025, is driven by a mission to champion and support the creative talents of university students across the UK.
READ MOREEdinburgh International Children's Festival of performing arts for children and young people.
READ MOREEdinburgh International Magic Festival is back this Christmas with a mind-blowing programme of shows, events and workshops!
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