Spring/summer festivals Edinburgh 2024
Visit these spring/summer festivals in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is famous for its festivals all year round. But particularly in the warmer months, when huge events, such as the Festival Fringe and International Festival, take over the city completely. And here at Parliament House Hotel, we are just a short walk from all the action. So, here’s our guide to some of the best spring/summer festivals in Edinburgh. Now all you need to do is choose your favourite, then book your tickets and festival accommodation.
Edinburgh Science Festival
30 March – 14 April 2024
Taking place over the Easter holidays, Edinburgh Science Festival puts on a wide range of events, talks, shows and exhibitions. Held in venues across the city, such as City Art Centre, Dynamic Earth, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and National Museum of Scotland. With something for all ages, this is not just for the kids. There is a varied programme to explore, including evening events like Science Festival Lates for the adults.
TradFest Edinburgh
3 – 13 May 2024
TradFest celebrates traditional music from Scotland and around the world, with a wide programme of events held at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, concert halls and theatres. Enjoy music, dance, storytelling, drama, film and more.
Beltane Fire Festival
30 April 2024
Celebrating the beginning of summer, the Beltane Fire Festival is a modern interpretation of a Celtic ritual, taking place just around the corner from us, atop Calton Hill. Music, light, fire displays and dramatic processions tell the story of the May Queen and the Green Man, in this amazing late-night spectacle.
Meadows Festival
1 – 2 June 2024
The Meadows Festival takes place on the first weekend of June every summer. The community gala features live music, market stalls and fun activities. Held in The Meadows large public park in Edinburgh, this is a great space to relax and enjoy the festival atmosphere.
Leith Festival
8 – 16 June 2024
Head to the streets of Leith for the only festival in Edinburgh for the people by the people. The annual Leith Festival is a 9-day extravaganza of Leith’s vibrant community. From music and theatre to arts, pageants and galas, Leith Festival is pretty much a celebration of all things Leith. With a number of free events, it is always one of our favourite summer festivals in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Canal Festival and Raft Race
15 June 2024
This year, the Canal Festival will be held on 15th June. This festival includes community performances and a range of activities around the Union Canal. The Raft Race is great fun to watch, as participants show off their creative raft designs.
The Royal Highland Show
20 – 23 June 2024
Channel your inner farm girl or guy with the Royal Highland Show! A popular annual spectacular, this event promises four days of action-packed entertainment. Attending an equestrian show, or maybe a cattle and sheep ring or two!
Pride Edinburgh
22 June 2024
June is Pride Month, and the city takes part each year with Pride Edinburgh, a festival and march that celebrates the LGBT+ community and promotes diversity and inclusivity.
Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival
12 – 21 July 2024
If summer in Edinburgh is music to your ears, then make sure you don’t miss all that Edinburgh Jazz at the Jazz & Blues Festival this July. With concerts on throughout the city over 10 days, it is one of our all-time favourite festivals in July. With some of the best jazz musicians in the world gracing the stage, a trip to Edinburgh during the festival is sure to jazz July up.
Edinburgh Food Festival
19 – 28 July 2024
The Edinburgh Food Festival features street food stalls, a producers’ market and a programme of live cooking demonstrations. Taking place in George Square Gardens, this is one for the foodies!
Edinburgh Art Festival
9 – 25 August 2024
The Edinburgh Art Festival is the largest celebration of visual art in the UK. Working with local and international partners to present its ambitious programme, with a colourful display of leading galleries, great museums and spectacular artists. This festival truly is a work of art!
Edinburgh International Festival
2 – 25 August 2024
The International Festival is renowned for its eclectic mix of dance, music, comedy and arts performances. Here, you’ll find everything from opera concerts to street performances. So for three weeks in August, you can enjoy an array of performances from international artists. Shows are hosted in venues across the city, from theatres to cafes, and Edinburgh comes alive with performing arts.
Edinburgh Fringe Festival
2 – 26 August 2024
Known as the largest arts festival in the world, Edinburgh Fringe hosts a plethora of performances from creative artists. There’s something to suit all ages, from comedy, dance, theatre and opera, to circus, cabaret, and children’s shows. Held in venues across the city, the festival is also a platform for unknown talent and there are plenty of free performances. And, over the years, it has been the launch of the road to stardom for many famous faces.
Edinburgh Military Tattoo
2 – 24 August 2024
The annual Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a favourite for locals and visitors alike. Held on the esplanade of the beautiful Edinburgh Castle the event celebrates military and civilian music from across the world. With performances from teams from the British Armed Forces, the Commonwealth and military teams from across the globe, this is a must-see. Furthermore, you’ll see Highland dancers, pipers, drummers and marching formations.
Edinburgh International Book Festival
10 – 25 August 2024
Book lovers will be in heaven at the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Held, beneath a huge canvas tent, there are books that will delight all ages. The festival hosts talks, readings, book signings and workshops. Also, there’s plenty of entertainment from stand-up comedy to live music.
Visit Edinburgh for the summer festivals
There’s no better time to visit Edinburgh than during the summer festivals, when our city comes alive with shows, music, theatre and comedy. So, take a look at our fantastic special offers and plan your festival stay with us at Parliament House this summer. And if you’re looking for more, check out our winter festivals too!
