Events in Edinburgh and the Lothians
Edinburgh and the Lothians is known world-wide for the exciting festivals which light up the capital in the summer months but there's much more to the region's events calendar - enjoy international rugby, food festivals, dance and storytelling and much more.
Edinburgh Festival Fringe
Aug 2-26, phone for times
Fringe Office
Now in its 67th year, the Fringe is officially the biggest arts festival in the world, providing a typically diverse and exciting line-up comprising a staggering number of shows throughout the month of August. Thousands of performers take to a multitude of stages all over Edinburgh to present shows for every taste. From big names in the world of entertainment to unknown artists looking to build their careers, the festival caters for everyone and includes theatre, comedy, dance, physical theatre, musicals, operas, music, exhibitions and events. Image by Janeanne Gilchrist at Unit Photography.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Aug 2-24, phone for times
Historic Scotland: Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh hosts the 2013 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, one of the world's most spectacular entertainment events, which draws together a host of creative talent from four continents. This will be the 63rd extravaganza to be staged at the Scottish capital's ancient castle - a spectacular and inspiring backcloth for this remarkable and internationally acclaimed event. With innovative production, heart-stopping sound, imaginative graphics, state-of-the-art lighting and specially commissioned fireworks, the 90-minute show is set to captivate a large cosmopolitan audience.
Edinburgh International Book Festival
Aug 10-26, phone for times
Charlotte Square
The festival attracts over 800 novelists, poets, scientists, philosophers and sportsmen from across the planet, bringing readers and writers together for entertainment, discussion and inspiration.
Edinburgh International Festival 2013
Aug 9-Sep 1, phone for times
The Hub
Every summer millions of visitors arrive in Edinburgh to enjoy three exhilarating three weeks of the very best in international opera, theatre, music, and dance. In 2013 the festival will once again bring the finest artists from around the globe to Scotland's beautiful capital city. From the very best international opera, ground-breaking theatre and electrifying dance to intimate morning recitals, exhilarating evening concerts, and the spectacular Virgin Money Fireworks Concert to round it all off, make sure you don't miss out on a summer of unforgettable experiences at the world's favourite festival. See the stars of today alongside the next generation of world-class artists and immerse yourself in a unique celebration of artistic excellence. The official centrepiece of all Edinburgh's summer festivals is the Edinburgh International Festival, founded in 1947 and still going strong. It is possibly the most exciting, innovative and accessible festival of the performing arts in the world, comprising dance, music, theatre and opera. International opera, dance, music and theatre performances, visual art and the Virgin Money Fireworks Concert to round off the three weeks.
Easter Eggcitement
Mon-Sun, phone for times
Almond Valley
Meet lambs new arrivals on the farm, dicover hidden eggs, and follow a special springtime trail.
Media Skins
Aug 9-Sep 1, dawn-dusk
Usher Hall
Photographer and media artist Hyung Su Kim's media facades using LEDs. Exploring new artistic expressions in public spaces.
Giants In The Forest
Mon-Sun dawn-dusk, ends Oct 31
Holyrood Park
These unique pieces of nature are outside the Rangers Cottage, where they will hang indefinitely, growing and changing with the seasons. Giants in the Forest is all about getting outdoors and experiencing Scotland's most amazing wilderness - even in the middle of the city. The Giants is a community art project, partnered with The City of Edinburgh Council, Historic Scotland and Vision Mechanics.
Carnivore Magic Moment
From May 6, Mon-Sun, phone for times, ends Dec 31 2014
Edinburgh Zoo
Not for the faint-hearted, this experience offers two visitors at a time the opportunity to get up close and feed two resident lions, and get inside information about their life at the Zoo. During the tour, the keeper will talk about their history and the importance of conservation.
Office Mondays
Mon, phone for times
Opal Lounge
Resident DJs play dance, club classics, soul, funk and R&B.
Acting: In Conversation With...
Aug 12, 12noon-1pm
Fringe Central
The Fringe Society chats with actors at the top of their game. Hear how they started, their career highs and lows, what they would do differently.
