Introduced as ‘the world’s greatest platform for creative freedom’, the Edinburgh Fringe is a festival like no other. Each August, you only need to be in the city to feel the buzz and energy surrounding the three-week event. Whether you’re visiting to take in one of the 53,232 performances, or purely to soak up the atmosphere from The Mound or amongst the cobbled streets of The Royal Mile in Edinburgh’s Old Town, you’re in for a treat.
The city will be overrun with artists, comedians, circus acts, musicians, thespians and poets from around the world. 2017 saw a whopping 2.7 million ticket holders descend on the city’s finest venues. From hotels in the new town, to cathedrals, theatres and museums, there are a vast array of venues to cosy up in and prepare to be transported to a cultural wonderland.
The Underbelly’s Circus Hub on the Meadows features two dazzling circus tents, as well as a charming bar. Last year, The Amazing Bubble Man – who’s sold out for the last 11 years - mesmerised audiences with spellbinding tricks, artistry and comedy. So far this year, the Splashtest Dummies have been announced at the venue and are set to bring a smile to all ages’ faces with their combo of acrobatics and slapstick comedy.
The Pleasance Dome is renowned for its quirky rooms, cracking atmosphere, pop-up bars and food places. So far, TV magician Ben Hanlin has been announced to grace the venue with his brand-new show.
© Edinburgh Fringe Festival
Comedy at the Fringe Festival
Described as a ‘huge talent’ by the Daily Mirror, award-winning comedian Juliette Barton will deliver a limited run of her 2017 sell-out show the ‘Butterfly Effect’. Within the neo-gothic mini-castle, the Gilded Balloon Teviot, she explores the power of kindness and whether being nice is outdated.
Firm fringe sell-out, Faulty Towers the Dining Experience returns to The Principal for 2018’s line-up. 70% improvised, audiences will be guaranteed a perfect mix of internationally-acclaimed comedy and just the right amount of mayhem. The interactive theatre performance will be accompanied by a three-course meal, ensuring that both your funny bone and your belly will be equally fulfilled.
With an overwhelming amount of comedians set to perform this year, we've compiled 5 out of hundreds of comedians set to perform this year. From dynamic duos to sell-out, award-winning acts and up-‘n’-comers, discover 5 comedians to watch at Edinburgh Fringe 2018.
Great Music at the Fringe
Edinburgh’s longest-standing independent jazz venue – simply named The Jazz Bar – will serve up excellent music in its bustling basement all day, every day, from 13:00-05:00. This stylish space is the city’s coolest venue for year-round live music. This year, prepare to experience exciting arrangements of New Orleans’ classics; sensational early-evening swing performances and delicious afternoons of acoustic blues. For Stevie Wonder fans, eight-piece band The Katet will perform both classics and rarities from the soul legend’s back catalogue. Order an Espresso Martini and settle in for the night.
The Space at Symposium Hall will combine music and storytelling this year, with shows dedicated to the careers of many music legends, including Dolly Parton, Elvis and Johnny Cash.
© Edinburgh Fringe Festival
Fringe Street Performances
The hub of the street performances is based in the heart of the city, so you can get immersed in the carnival atmosphere on the Royal Mile (a 5-minute walk from Euro Hostel Edinburgh Halls) and the Mound Precinct (a 10-minute walk away). There’ll be world class street shows, as well as Arts and Crafts markets to give you a healthy dose of festival fever. The Fringe will run from 3rd-27th August, with the full programme launching on 6th June. In the meantime, discover other summer festivals in Edinburgh that you can enjoy this year.
For fantastic, budget-friendly accommodation that’ll allow you to experience Edinburgh Fringe for more than a fleeting weekend, we offer private apartments from small groups of 3 right up to groups of 12 with exclusive use of the kitchen, lounge area and bathrooms. Or, stay in one of our private bedrooms in a shared apartment, where you’ll have a lockable room as well as the company of other festival-goers in communal areas.
Book your accommodation today and start looking forward to the summer!
