The Best Festivals in Edinburgh this Summer
Our Favourite Summer Festivals, Edinburgh 2022
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
9 – 24 April 2022
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.
Beltane Fire Festival
30 April 2022
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.
Leith Festival
June 2022
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 Festival of Cycling
9 June 2022
Showcasing all aspects of cycling in and around Edinburgh. Such as travel, leisure, adventure, transport, sport and personal development. Edinburgh Festival of Cycling celebrates bike culture in venues across the city. Jam-packed with rides, races, exhibitions, workshops and also family events.
Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival
15 – 24 July 2022
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.
The Royal Highland Show
23 – 26 June 2022
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!
Edinburgh Art Festival
28 July – 28 August 2022
Since the end of July marks the start of the Edinburgh August festival extravaganza, we have got saying goodbye to July down to a fine art. The Edinburgh Art Festival is the largest celebration of visual art in the UK. With a colourful display of leading galleries, great museums and spectacular artists, the festival truly is a work of art.
Edinburgh International Festival
5 – 29 August 2022
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
5 – 29 August 2022
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
5 – 27 August 2022
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 talents military and civilian music from across the world. With performance from teams from the British Armed Forces, the Commonwealth and military teams from across the globe, this family-friendly event is a must-see. Furthermore, you’ll see Highland dancers, pipers, drummers and marching formations.
Edinburgh International Book Festival
13 – 29 August 2022
Book lovers will be in heaven at this international Book Festival. Held, beneath a huge canvas in Charlotte Square, there are books that will delight all ages. The festival hosts talks, readings, book signings and workshops, and famous faces like J.K Rowling have graced its stage. 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!
