Edinburgh & Sports Events

The Fringe

Launched in 1947, the Edinburgh International Festival was part of an initiative to re-unite post war Europe through culture and is now the largest arts festival in the world.

With over 30,000 performances taking place across Edinburgh in August, the festival now attracts visitors, performers and critics from across the globe.

Full listings and further information can be found on the fringe official website www.edfringe.com

Hogmanay

Join the world famous Scottish New Year celebrations at Edinburgh's Hogmanay.  The city plays host to the "Royal Bank" street party, with music, dancing, food & drink, headlining acts in the past have included Texas, Paulo Nutini & KT Tunstall.

If you are not lucky enough to get tickets to the popular street party event, there are plenty of other venues to choose from.  Many pubs & clubs will enjoy there own celebrations and you can enjoy a magnificent view of the firework display at "the bells" from the Calton Hill or Arthur's Seat.

Royal Highland Show

Towards the end of June every year Ingliston, just outside Edinburgh plays host to the Royal Highland Show - a showcase of rural living and agriculture.

Adults and children of all ages will be entertained by many different types of animals, competitions, shows, performances and music.  Visitors can also enjoy top chefs revealing their secrets to success in the kitchen at The Scottish Food & Drink Theatre and the largest outdoor motor show in Scotland with Tractors harvesters and much more.

Murrayfield

Murrayfield in Scotland's largest stadium with a capacity of over 67,000 and is home to Scottish Rugby Union.

The original stadium which opened in 1925 plays host every year to the Six Nations Rugby Tournament and has also been the venue for many concerts and events including "Live8".  When the pitch is empty, visitors can enjoy a tour of the stadium, walk in the footsteps of legends, visiting the players dressing rooms, royal box and the hospitality suites.

Football

Edinburgh is home to two football teams - "Heart of Midlothian FC" and "Hibernian FC".  Both teams playing regular matches in the Scottish Premier League during the Scottish football season

"Heart of Midlothian" or "Hearts" is Edinburgh's oldest football club and was founded in 1874 and has its home at Tynecastle.

"Hibernian FC" or Hibs was founded a year later in 1875 by Irish born football enthusiasts.  Their name coming from the Roman word for Ireland, Hibs find their home at the Easter Road Stadium.

Theatre's & Venues

Edinburgh is home to many theatres and concert venues.

The Kings Theatre:  Opened in 1906 and built as a variety theatre the Kings Theatre has played host to many famous performers over the years.  The theatre also has a tradition of amateur operatic and musical work.

Playhouse Theatre:  Opened as a 'super cinema' in 1929 Edinburgh's Playhouse is the largest theatre in the UK (in terms of capacity).  The theatre plays host to many touring musical theatre productions, such as Mamma Mia, Cats and The Sound of Music.  The theatre has also been used as a venue for concerts for many big names.

Corn Exchange:  Based in Slateford to the south west of Edinburgh City Centre is a flexible venue, with capabilities for hosting conferences, weddings, banquets, exhibitions, Christmas parties, functions and concerts.