The Fringe

From humble beginnings the Edinburgh Fringe has become the biggest arts festival in the world. Each year over 2,000 shows take place throughout the month of August as 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 includes theatre, comedy, dance, physical theatre, musicals, operas, music, exhibitions and events.

The Fringe festival dates back to 1947, when eight theatre groups turned up uninvited to perform at the (then newly formed) Edinburgh International Festival. The Festival was created to celebrate and enrich European cultural life after the Second World War. Not being part of the official programme didn't stop these performers - they just went ahead and staged their shows anyway. Year on year more and more performers followed their example. In response to the success of this growing trend the Festival Fringe Society was created in 1959. The policy of the Fringe Society was, and still is, to welcome anyone with a story to tell and a venue willing to host them.

The Festival transforms most of Edinburgh and provides excitement and fun on every corner! The city nearly doubles in its population during the month of August as performers and visitors flood the city to take part in this incredible event. Check out our events calendar for the dates of this year's Fringe Festival, then book your transport and accommodation and join the festivities!