Immerse yourself in the world of entertainment with
The Edinburgh Fringe
What is the Fringe?
For three weeks in August, the city of Edinburgh welcomes an explosion of creative energy from around the globe. Artists and performers take to hundreds of stages all over the city, presenting shows for every taste. Venues can be anywhere, from existing theatres and concert halls to repurposed spaces like bars, parks, buses and shipping containers. The Fringe street events bring colour, excitement and vibrancy to outdoor areas, free of charge.
From big names in the world of entertainment to unknown artists looking to build their careers, the festival spans every genre of live performance, including theatre, comedy, dance, physical theatre, circus, cabaret, children's shows, musicals, opera, music, spoken word, exhibitions and events.
The main event areas are right in the heart of Edinburgh – the High Street / Royal Mile (from Cockburn Street to George IV Bridge), Hunter Square and the Mound Precinct, off Princes Street.
The centre of Edinburgh is very busy during the Fringe. We highly recommend walking or taking public transport to get to and from the Fringe Street Events, rather than using a car. There are of course, car parks around the city, but usually with high rates. The sites are close to Edinburgh Waverley railway station, major bus routes and cycle routes. There are bike racks within the sites.
Costs
The street performances are completely free, however, if you can donate, please do. These performers have travelled from all over the world to contribute to the festival and it’s great to show some appreciation for their talents.
The indoor performances will have a small cost and you can get a program which is released on the day of the launch. To see more info about how to get one, please visit here: Get a program
The history
The fringe festival dates back to 1947, when eight theatre groups turned up uninvited to perform at the Edinburgh International Festival. The Edinburgh International Festival was an initiative created to celebrate and enrich European cultural life in the wake of the Second World War. in 1958, the Fringe Society was created to formalise these events and the collective performances.
We welcome anyone who wants to take part and each year, the historic Royal Mile and Mound Precinct are transformed into huge street performance playgrounds where hundreds of world-class street artists mix with thousands of festivalgoers, creating the most vibrant and visible event of Edinburgh’s summer. Registration to participate in the Fringe Street Events opens in the months leading up to the festival (subject to confirmation of full funding and licensing). Registration for buskers and circle shows is free and remains open in the lead-up to and throughout the Fringe.
Before registering, you will require an up-to-date Public Liability Insurance (PLI) which will cover you for August, and all acts are required to be family friendly.
If you have any questions about performing as part of the Fringe Street Events, please email our team on streetevents@edfringe.com.
Daily schedule
The Street Events draw takes place every day of the Fringe street events from 10:00; once it's complete, there is an update you can find here: Edinburgh events
Getting there
By rail
Waverley Station (Edinburgh’s main railway station) is ideally positioned in the heart of the city, close to most festival destinations and the many bus routes servicing Princes Street (the main shopping street). For more information, visit:
ScotRail (a festival timetable is normally available in August).
TransPennine Express (north-west England)
Caledonian Sleeper (overnight services from London)
National Rail (for updates on network maintenance)
Be sure to plan your journeys in advance as cheaper advance tickets from many UK destinations go on sale 12 to 24 weeks in advance of travel.
By Road
The journey to Edinburgh is a scenic treat by either car or bus. Edinburgh is connected to the UK’s east coast via the A1(M); a short trip to Glasgow on the M8 connects you to most cities in the west via the M6 and the Lake District. Coach services run directly to Edinburgh from throughout Scotland and the rest of the UK. Start planning your journey:
Car Share
A great green initiative, car-sharing is one of the best options for travelling to Edinburgh. You save on costs while saving the planet, and get to know some of your fellow Fringe-goers en route.
By air
Edinburgh International Airport is served by most domestic carriers and several international operators. The airport is easy to reach from the city, located just eight miles (12km) west of Edinburgh city centre.
Bring the whole family, have a great time, we promise you it will be a memorable experience.
The next fringe event will take place from the 1st- 25th August 2025.
