The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has gone from strength to strength since its creation, with performers from over 48 countries around the world having taken part over the years in this high-energy showcase on the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade.
What is the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo?
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a special annual event which is part of Edinburgh’s summer festivals. It is a unique outdoor celebration of dance and music from across the globe, military traditions, Scottish heritage, and international culture.
This unforgettable event features fireworks and cutting-edge lighting against the incredible backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. A Lone Piper marks the end of each show and provides a moment of reflection to remember those who came before us.
When is the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo?
In 2024, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo will take place between 2 – 24 August on the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade.
Don’t miss out on this incredible event! Find out more about how to secure a ticket on the Edinburgh Tattoo website.
Who is performing at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in 2024?
This year, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo will showcase talent from the UK, USA, Australia, Canada, Switzerland, and India as part of their show ‘Journeys’. The show will celebrate nautical themes with the Royal Navy at its centre.
Discover more about the 2024 cast of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
What is the history of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo started over seven decades ago. It originated from a show called “Something About a Soldier” which was performed in 1949, as part of the Edinburgh International Festival of Music and Drama.
In 1950, the first-ever Edinburgh Tattoo took place which included 20 performances and attracted an audience of 100,000. This event featured eight displays of piping and dancing on Edinburgh Castle Esplanade – a much smaller affair than today’s dazzling show.
Having grown in size and reputation, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is now a world-renowned event and is an iconic part of Edinburgh’s summer festivals.
Each year, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is watched live by an audience of around 200,000. Over 14 million people have enjoyed the show since it first debuted. The spectacle is also broadcast to a staggering 100 million people around the world each year.
Watch past Tattoo highlights
Watch videos of past Tattoo performances on the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo YouTube channel.
Visit the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo website.
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