The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has gone from strength to strength since its creation, with performers from over 50 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 an annual event that is part of Edinburgh’s summer festivals. It is an outdoor celebration of dance and music from across the globe, showcasing military traditions, Scottish heritage, and international culture.
The 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.
Photo credit: The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
When is The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo?
In 2026, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo will take place between 7 – 29 August at the Edinburgh Castle Arena. Don’t miss out on this incredible event!
This year, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo will focus on the theme of “A Call to Gather”, inviting the audience to unite for an unforgettable evening of spectacle, storytelling and celebration.
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, featuring 20 performances and attracted an audience of 100,000. It featured eight displays of piping and dancing on Edinburgh Castle Esplanade – a much smaller affair than today’s show.
Photo credit: The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is now a world-renowned event and is an iconic part of Edinburgh’s summer festivals, watched by a live audience of around 230,000 each year. Over 14 million people have enjoyed the show since it first debuted. It is also broadcast to a staggering 100 million people around the world each year.
Watch videos of past Tattoo performances on The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo YouTube channel (YouTube.com)
Find out more about The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (edintattoo.co.uk)
Watch videos of past Tattoo performances on The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo YouTube channel (YouTube.com)
Find out more about The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (edintattoo.co.uk)