| , Various Locations Edinburgh | |
| 01314732000 | |
| 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 MOREFounded in 2004, Edinburgh Art Festival works with local and international partners to present an ambitious and meaningful programme of exhibitions, events and projects across the city.
READ MORERed Red Rose Street returns for 2018 with a festival of Burns’ music and words running from 25th - 27th January.
READ MORESet up in 1978, Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival now presents high quality musicians from all over the world.
READ MOREThe Edinburgh International Film Festival will return from 13th to 19th August 2026 at the very heart of Edinburgh's festival season.
READ MORENT Art Month is a month-long celebration of the incredible arts quarter in Edinburgh's New Town.
READ MOREEdinburgh’s Just Festival Celebrates 21st Year With Bumper Programme. Free to attend programme online and at St. John’s Church, Princes Street from 6th – 30th August.
READ MOREAudacious Women Festival encourages and empowers women to break personal, political, institutional barriers, and celebrates inspirational women.
READ MORELuminate: Scotland's creative ageing festival celebrating creativity as we age.
READ MOREWelcome to BedFest 2025. Strap in and snuggle up, it’s the Bedlam Festival: Cosy Style.
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 MOREThe Traverse kicks off its 2022 programme with a wide range of interactive workshops and Q&As, in-person readings and creative prompts for first time writers to seasoned theatremakers.
READ MOREEdinburgh's Festival of Migration, celebrating the vibrant cultural diversity of our city and our neighbours!
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