Festival of Politics

The Scottish Parliament’s Festival of Politics takes place in August, with a three-day programme of over 30 events, taking place in the home of Scottish politics at Holyrood.

About Festival of Politics

	, Edinburgh Old Town EH99 1SP
	01313485000
	Festival of Politics Website
	Facebook information can be found here
	Follow scotparl on Instagram

Listed Under Attractions - Festivals

The Scottish Parliament’s Festival of Politics returns this August with a three-day programme of over 30 events, taking place in Holyrood, the home of Scottish politics.

This year’s Festival promises lively debates, thought-provoking panels and inspiring voices tackling some of the most pressing social, political and environmental issues of our time.

BBC journalist Clive Myrie will appear as part of the line-up this year, in conversation with the Deputy Presiding Officer Liam McArthur MSP where he will discuss his incredible 30-year broadcasting career.

Professor Danny Dorling, renowned social geographer, will explore the impact of politics on the UK’s housing, education, poverty and inequality levels, and will offer robust solutions on how to address these challenges of our age.

In addition, our Festival programme features leading experts from the worlds of politics, the arts, business, the media and the third sector. With events on topics such as the use of AI, peace in the Middle East, how we tackle misogyny and our use of technology.

In addition, there is a lively free programme of entertainment, exhibitions and even a robot in the Festival Café Bar.

We take every opportunity to ensure the details for Festival of Politics are accurate, if any of the above information is incorrect we would appreciate if you could take a minute to suggest an edit.

All information (whether in text or photographs) is supplied in good faith but should not be relied upon as being a statement of representation or fact.

Want to be the first to hear about what's happening in Edinburgh? Just hit 'Like' on our What's On Edinburgh Facebook page, join the What's On Scotland Facebook Group or Instagram accounts and you're all set!

Upcoming Events at Festival of Politics

Sorry, but we have no upcoming events for Festival of Politics. If you know of an event taking place at Festival of Politics or anywhere else in Edinburgh tell us about it and we'll list it on the website, for free!

More Festivals in Edinburgh

Festivals

NT Art Month

, Edinburgh New Town

NT Art Month is a month-long celebration of the incredible arts quarter in Edinburgh's New Town.

Festivals

Edinburgh International Harp Festival

George Watson's College 69 Colinton Road, Edinburgh South EH10 5EG

The Edinburgh International Harp Festival returns for its 42nd year in April, showcasing an eclectic array of harp talent from across the globe.

Festivals

Edinburgh Tradfest

, Various Locations Edinburgh

The very best traditional music from Scotland and around the world returns from 2nd to 12th May 2025.

Festivals

Festival of Migration

Southside Community Centre 117 Nicolson Street, Edinburgh South EH8 9ER

Edinburgh's Festival of Migration, celebrating the vibrant cultural diversity of our city and our neighbours!

Festivals

Edinburghs Hogmanay

, Various Locations Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is back to celebrate the end of 2025 and the new year with an unforgettable experience for Edinburgh and beyond.

Festivals

Edinburgh International Magic Festival

Edinburgh International Magic Festival is back this Christmas with a mind-blowing programme of shows, events and workshops!

Festivals

Edinburgh Festival of Cycling

, Various Locations Edinburgh

The Edinburgh Festival of Cycling is back with a nine-day festival, across Edinburgh (and maybe beyond) between Friday 31st May and Sunday 9th June.

Festivals

Lammermuir Festival

, Various Locations East Lothian

Lammermuir Festival is East Lothian's celebration of Beautiful Music in Beautiful Places.

Festivals

Manipulate Festival

, Various Locations Edinburgh

The 19th edition of Manipulate Festival will take place between 4th and 10th February 2026.

Festivals

Edinburgh Deaf Featival

49 Albany Street, Edinburgh New town EH1 3QY

Edinburgh Deaf Festival is an accessible celebration of deaf culture, language and heritage. Join us for a variety of performances and events throughout the week.

Festivals

Scottish International Storytelling Festival

, Various Locations Edinburgh

The Scottish International Storytelling Festival returns from 22nd October to 1st November 2025 with the theme 'Lights of the North'.

Festivals

Edinburghs Christmas

, Various Locations Edinburgh

Edinburgh's Christmas transforms the beautiful city centre with festive fun for all the family, including traditional Christmas Markets, funfair rides, spectacular live outdoor events and much more!

All Festivals listings in Edinburgh