Now Reading:
A Guide to Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2024
A Guide to Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2024
01 July 2024
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, one of the world's largest celebrations of arts and culture, takes place every August in Scotland’s capital city. The city of Edinburgh transforms into a vibrant, pulsating hub of artistic expression during this three-week extravaganza.
It's a celebration of creativity in its purest form, with performers from around the globe converging to showcase their talents across a dizzying array of genres. Discover how to make the most of the Fringe Festival with our guide.
What does Edinburgh Fringe Festival celebrate?
The Edinburgh Fringe Festival started in 1947, coinciding with the Edinburgh International Festival, which was initially an invitation-only event. In its first year, eight theatre troupes, who were not officially invited to perform, secured performance spaces, staged their shows during the official festival, and experienced success.
This grassroots movement continued to grow, attracting more unofficial participants in subsequent years. Operating on the fringes of the official festival, this alternative scene became known as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. While theatre still holds significance at the Fringe, stand-up comedy has become its most renowned feature nowadays.
When is the Edinburgh Fringe Festival?
The festival takes place from Friday 2nd – Monday 26th August 2024
As the Edinburgh Fringe Festival ends on a vibrant bank holiday weekend, the city reaches its peak with a flurry of visitors eager to partake in the diverse and dynamic events.
Where to stay in Edinburgh for the Fringe Festival
Frasers Suites Edinburgh is in an ideal location for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. From St Giles Street you can easily go to any venue around the Old Town, and we’re right by North Bank St, so you walk down into New Town in no time at all.
If you’re only staying for a night or two, we do suggest taking a look at our classic deluxe suite or studio executive. These fully furnished suites have their own kitchenette, entertainment system and free Wi-Fi.
For those celebrating a special occasion, indulge in one of our bespoke luxury suites, featuring breathtaking views and a private balcony for an unforgettable Edinburgh experience during the Fringe Festival.
In the heart of Edinburgh, our central location ensures convenient access to major Edinburgh Fringe Festival venues. As Edinburgh is a walking city, you can get from show to show in no time at all.
While we are expected to be very busy throughout August, if you already know what dates you’ll be visiting, take a look at our offers page to see what advanced deals we have for guests.
What’s happening at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival?
The festival, renowned for its diversity and innovation, showcases a myriad of arts, from theatre, comedy and, musicals to exhibitions and events for children, attracting artists and visitors from around the globe. Amidst the historic charm of Edinburgh, the Fringe Festival becomes a bustling stage, capturing the essence of cultural expression and turning the city into a vibrant centre of artistic exploration.
As the festival dates draw near, anticipation builds for nearly 1,600 shows, events, and spontaneous performances that define the experience of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2024. Whether you're a seasoned Fringe-goer or a newcomer to the festival scene, Edinburgh offers something for everyone during this vibrant celebration.
Where is the Edinburgh Fringe?
It takes place at lots of places, such as an old medical school called Summerhall, a student’s union named Pleasance Dome, and loads of smaller bars. They're mostly close together, so you can walk between them in about 15 minutes.
In 2024, Fringe Central location will be at the Grassmarket Centre, where artists, the arts industry, and media gather. They offer personalised assistance, from panel events to networking, helping the arts industry find new opportunities and showcase Fringe artists beyond the festival.
In terms of how long it would take to get to a venue from your suite at Fraser Suites Edinburgh, average journey times by foot are:
- Assembly George Square Gardens – 11 minutes
- The Stand Comedy Club – 13 minutes
- George Square Theatre – 14 minutes
- Pleasance Courtyard – 12 minutes
- Gilded Balloon Teviot – 8 minutes (via George Bridge)
- Traverse Theatre – 12 minutes
- Assembly Rooms – 10 Minutes
How can I get tickets to Fringe events?
To secure your spot at Edinburgh Fringe Festival events, the official Fringe website is your go to platform for convenient ticket purchases and comprehensive event listings. While many shows may sell out in advance, the option to purchase tickets in person remains available.
Can I buy tickets in person?
Yes. Many shows do sell out in advance, but you can still buy tickets on the day for many shows. The main Fringe Box Office is located at Old Assembly close on High St, 150 metres away from Fraser Suites Edinburgh.
How can I get to the Edinburgh Fringe from Edinburgh Airport?
Navigating your way to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival from Edinburgh Airport is both quick and convenient.
The Airline 100 bus runs non-stop from the airport, with a bus every 10 minutes at peak time leaving passengers off at Waverley Bridge, a 4-minute walk from our front door. Bus tickets are £5.50 for a single, £8 for a return.
There is also a tram link that operates from 6am – 10pm every day and leaves passengers in the city in around 30 minutes. Tram tickets are £7.50 for a single, £9.50 for a return.
FAQ about the Edinburgh Fringe Festival
How long is the Fringe festival in Edinburgh?
For three weeks in August, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival transforms into a hub of creative energy, packed with stages featuring a wide range of shows by artists and performers from around the world.
Is the Edinburgh Fringe festival free?
Some shows are ticketed, while others are non-ticketed and do not charge in advance. The Fringe Box Office can issue tickets for free ticketed shows, and many free shows offer the audience the option to contribute money to a collection bucket at the end of the performance.
Planning a trip to Edinburgh? Check out our travel guides!
Planning a trip to Edinburgh? Check out our travel guides!
You May Also Like
You May Also Like
Contact Us
12, 26 St Giles' Street, Edinburgh EH1 1PT, United Kingdom
Not a Fraser World Member? Sign up today for free membership and enter a world of privileges
- Complimentary Stays
- Up to 20% off Best Flexible Rate
- Room Upgrade
- Early Check-in
- Exclusive Rewards
- Welcome Voucher