Two Edinburgh festivals not to miss this summer

If you are looking for a vacation destination before school starts – consider Edinburgh, Scotland! As the country’s capital – Edinburgh is a well-known for its heritage, culture and festivals.

The two biggest fests of the year are coming up; the International Book Festival and Festival Fringe. Both are fantastic fun for the entire family!

Edinburgh International Book Festival: August 12-28

Some of the world’s best literature and storytellers hail from Scotland — a good reason to host the largest public celebration of the written word. Charlotte Square Gardens turns into a story-lover’s paradise as it fills with book tents, authors and poets. Expect a delightful mix of literature and music. Soak up the atmosphere, kick back on the grass and enjoy an afternoon cuppa in the café or a wee dram in the Spiegeltent.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe: August 4-28 

Each August, “the Fringe” transforms Edinburgh into a performing arts center with multiple venues across the city. It’s the largest arts festival in the world. In 2016, there were more than 50,000 performances and 3,300 shows spread across 313 venues throughout the city. Big names to up and comers performing theater, dance, musicals, cabaret, stand-up comedy and the spoken word (the latter two are my favorites).
The beauty of the festival is that events are everywhere. From large stages, bookstores, botanical gardens and steps to famous landmarks, hotels, restaurants, bars, pubs and more, you’re always close to an event during Fringe. Review the Edinburgh Festival Fringe program to zero in on the events that you prefer.

With events happening all over the city – these are two festivals you don’t want to miss!