What is the Edinburgh International Festival?
The International Festival welcomes the world to Edinburgh to experience a hand-picked programme of the finest performers in dance, opera, music and theatre. Through world-class artistry, the festival creates space for reflection and reconciliation, debate and celebration, bringing people of different cultures and viewpoints together.
In 2023, Scottish violinist Nicola Benedetti became the first female Festival Director. Her leadership has been focused on fostering a deep culture of listening, dialogue and debate, alongside warm hospitality and a proud connection with Scottish culture.
When is the Edinburgh International Festival?
The 2026 Edinburgh International Festival runs from 7–30 August, with 147 performances across 24 days.
Affordability at the Edinburgh International Festival
Edinburgh International Festival believes that cost shouldn’t be a barrier to cultural discovery and has a range of discounts for under 18s, under 30s and D/deaf disabled and neuro-diverse customers; as well as £10 affordable tickets available for every performance.
Find out more on the Edinburgh International Festival site (eif.co.uk)
What is the history of the Edinburgh International Festival?
Founded in 1947, the International Festival was the inspired idea of Rudolf Bing, a cultural pioneer and Jewish refugee of the Nazi regime. He joined with civic and artistic leaders to create an event that would transcend political boundaries through a global celebration of performing arts in Scotland’s beloved capital city.
Since then, the International Festival has flourished, deepening its commitment to artistic excellence and cultural curiosity. Sister festivals have grown up around it, each of them contributing to the atmosphere of unparalleled excitement that transforms the city every summer.
Shining far beyond what you see on stage each August, the festival aims to be a beacon for the creativity, curiosity and potential held within individuals, communities and Scotland.
It offers year-round pathways for people of all ages and backgrounds to discover and participate in live performance, and to help shape the future of the festival. By nurturing the next generation of artists – from inspiring primary schoolchildren to mentoring rising stars – the festival’s legacy will be felt for years to come.
Explore Edinburgh’s Summer Festivals
Find out more about the Edinburgh International Festival (eif.co.uk)