Festivals
International Festival of classical Music, opera and Theatre
The festival began in 1947 to enrich the cultural life of Scotland and promote talent in classical music, dance and opera. Each year other international groups are invited to collaborate and deliver memorable performances in venues across Edinburgh. The programme of events will be officially launched in April, when the public can start booking.
Friday 14 August - 6 September 2009
www.eif.co.uk
Leith Festival
Two weeks of dance, comedy, open days, international guests all gather in and around Leith to celebrate the diversity of the village. Some events are free others like the comedy and film festival you will need tickets. There's also a Gala Day and several market stalls. One of the highlights in 2008 was the Maasai Warriors, who danced and chanted local tribal songs.
5 June to Sunday 14 June 2009.
www.leithfestival.com
Christmas & Hogmanay
The city rivals London with its dazzling lights displays in George and Princess street. There's a German market
27 November to 25 December 2009
Hogmanay - New Year's Eve - Ensure you book your event ahead of arrival, you'll be surprised how many are booked out months in advanced particularly those with a good view of the fireworks from the castle. You can also join in the free activities on the Royal Mile and George Street.
www.edinburghswinterfestivals.com
Military Tattoo
Tickets go on sale each year in December. 2009 marks the 60th year so it is sure to be bigger and better, but then again they always say that.
Its also the 250th anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns, so expect a lot of poetry and celebrations and of course a 'wee dram'. 7 - 29 August 2009. Tickets can be bought from the official site below.
www.edinburgh-tattoo.co.uk
Edinburgh Art Festival
The festivals brings together art from affiliated galleries and art organisations for a frenzy of exhibitions and events. Most exhibition are free and you probably won't get time to visit them all but I'm sure it will be fun trying.
30 July to 6 September 2009
www.edinburghartfestival.org
Ceilidh Culture Festival
A chance to really listen and learn about Scottish Culture via music and dance, and not just from the Scots, an international line-up of guests sing, tell stories and of course there's a little jig or two. Performances across Edinburgh. 27 March -19 April 2009
www.ceilidhculture.co.uk
Fringe Festival
This would have to be one of the most important arts festival in the UK. Nearly 31,000 performers deliver 2,000 shows over three weeks. Comedy of course features high on the list and the festival has launched many careers and continues to receive famous artists such as Billy Connolly, Ben Elton, Stephen Fry and many many others.
7-31 August 2009
www.edfringe.com
Beltane Fire Society
These festivals, 4 quarter-day events, have grown in popularity with over 12,000 attending last year. The festival marks the changing of the season with symbolic rituals and dance of ancient times. The festivals aims to re-ignite many old traditionas with some modern interpretations. Expect a lot of fire!
Next festival 31 October 2009 Samhuinn however it commences at the Castle Esplanade. The event is free.
www.beltane.org