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The Edinburgh International Festival was the inspired idea of Rudolf Bing, then the General Manager of Glyndebourne Opera, Henry Harvey Wood, the Head of the British Council in Scotland, and leaders from the City of Edinburgh. It was established in 1947 as a world class cultural event to bring together audiences and artists from around the world, and over 70 years has gone from strength to strength.
For three weeks in August, Scotland’s capital becomes an unparalleled celebration of the performing arts and an annual meeting point for people of all nations. The International Festival presents a programme featuring the finest performers and ensembles from the worlds of dance, opera, music and theatre.
Our impact extends beyond the annual programme: our community learning and engagement and professional development programmes run throughout the year, reaching the widest possible audiences and contributing to the cultural and social life of Edinburgh and Scotland.
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is one of the greatest celebrations of arts and culture on the planet.
READ MOREEdinburgh’s Hogmanay is back to celebrate the end of 2025 and the new year with an unforgettable experience for Edinburgh and beyond.
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READ MOREThe first full Leith Comedy Festival will take place in popular live venues and community hubs across Leith this October.
READ MOREThe Edinburgh Festival Fringe is one of the greatest celebrations of arts and culture on the planet.
READ MOREWhile Santa and his elves frolic under snowflakes, something sinister is lurking in the icy caverns of Niddry Street.
READ MOREBurns&Beyond returns in January 2024, celebrating the life and legacy of Robert Burns through traditional and contemporary art and culture from across Scotland and Beyond!
READ MOREThe Edinburgh International Book Festival began in 1983 and is now a key event in the August Festival season.
READ MOREThe Edinburgh International Film Festival will return from 13th to 19th August 2026 at the very heart of Edinburgh's festival season.
READ MOREJoin us for a multi-art festival of visual and performing arts, including photography, art installations, painting, theatre, short films, live music and dance!
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