Is The Edinburgh Fringe Festival worth Visiting In 2025?

The Edinburgh Fringe is the world’s largest arts festival, attracting performers and audiences to Scotland from around the globe. While it is undoubtedly popular, is it still worth visiting in 2025.

We’ve visited the Edinburgh Fringe multiple times with our kids, watching shows and street performers across the city.

One of our favourites includes ‘The IKEA Man’, who precariously balanced himself on chairs and tables while juggling knives and fire batons. We are also fans of the interactive magic tricks often performed while doing something incredibly dangerous or funny!

In this guide, we’ll explore why we believe the Edinburgh Fringe is still worth visiting with children, what to expect, and how to make the most of your experience.

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Quick Guide: Edinburgh Fringe Festival

🌟 When: 01 – 25 August 2025 🌟
Where: Edinburgh, Scotland
Watch Free Street Performances on the Royal Mile
Pick shows and events to attend
Book Family-friendly accommodation in Edinburgh

Is The Edinburgh Fringe Worth Visiting?

This is a definite Yes! Not only is Edinburgh one of our favourite cities in Scotland, but it is also a great place to visit during the Fringe festival. It has a welcoming, friendly atmosphere and is one of the world’s safest cities; perfect for kids and teens on a family adventure.

The Fringe offers families an accessible way to experience the arts and live performances at a vast variety of events across Edinburgh.

The street performances are a ‘must-see’, even if some of them will have you covering your eyes in fear! We have spent many happy hours watching them on the Royal Mile and in the heart of the city’s Grassmarket.

Whether you are happy to pay, looking for free entertainment or simply wanting to visit the city in summer, spending a day in Edinburgh during the Fringe is worthwhile.

A Fringe street performer balance on a table surrounded by crowds in Edinburgh.

What is the Edinburgh Fringe Festival?

The Edinburgh Fringe is one of the world’s largest arts festivals. It is held annually every August in Edinburgh, Scotland. The festival aims to raise awareness of and celebrate art and culture.

Edinburgh offers a diverse range of live performances throughout the city, featuring comedy, music, theatre, dance, and magic shows. With thousands of shows to choose from, ranging from adult to family-friendly options, the festival offers a great experience.

Our favourites are the street performers along the Royal Mile. Some have even chosen our kids to participate in the interactive show as an assistant, making it even more fun.

>> Not sure where to start at the Edinburgh fringe <<
Head to the Royal Mile and Grassmarket.
Look out for crowds forming, as this is often an indicator that a show is about to begin.

Reasons To Visit Edinburgh Fringe With Kids

The Fringe features both adult and family-friendly performances. There are interactive workshops, shows, and street entertainment aimed at different age groups.

Here’s why our family loves it:

Variety of Shows – The festival features a range of children’s entertainment, including circus, comedy, puppetry, magic, science, storytelling, and musicals tailored towards family audiences.
Street Performances – The Royal Mile and Grassmarket are alive with free street performances, featuring magicians, clowns, live statues, music and acrobats that captivate our children. Our teens’ favourites are circus and stunt acts, especially when they include fire and precarious balancing acts. Years before, it was magic shows that interested our kids.
Interactive Activities – Kids can participate in creative workshops in drama, music, and art in a fun, engaging and educational way. They may also become the star of the show as an audience guest.
Exposure to the Arts – It’s a fantastic way to introduce children to theatre, creativity, and diverse cultures. Sensory activities even allow babies and toddlers to take part.
Free and Accessible Entertainment – The Fringe features a mix of free, ticketed and “pay-what-it’s-worth” events, making it an affordable introduction for families. The Royal Mile is the perfect place for entertainers if you’re unsure where to start.
Cultural and Historical Explorations – Away from Fringe events, families can explore Edinburgh’s history at the dungeons, visit the castle or see the sights from Arthur’s Seat.

Two men doing a magic show in a crowded room in Edinburgh enjoying a festival.

Ticketed vs Free Fringe Events For Families

At the Fringe, families can choose between ticketed events and free Fringe shows. Both of which have given us an exceptional festival experience.

Ticketed shows often feature well-known performers, polished productions, and have reserved seating, making them ideal for families who want to plan and secure a spot for popular acts.

The Free Fringe events are an excellent option for spontaneous fun and budget-friendly days out, offering a range of entertainment, from storytelling to street theatre and music performances.

While free shows don’t require tickets, arriving early is crucial, as seating is often available on a first-come, first-served basis. A donation is always appreciated to support the performers.

Kids resting feet on a 'fringe street events' orange bollard.

Things to Consider Before Visiting The Fringe

While the festival is exciting, it can also be overwhelming. Families with young children or those unfamiliar with the city should consider:

Crowds and Noise – With August being peak holiday season, the Fringe can be incredibly busy, with a combination of festival-goers and tourists. The experience may be overwhelming for younger kids.
Show Selection – Some performances (especially those held indoors) may not be suitable for children, even during the day. Check the age recommendations.
Weather – Scottish summers are unpredictable, be prepared for rain, bring layers and hope for sunshine. Street performances may get cancelled in poor weather.
Cost – Ticketed shows can be expensive, but there are plenty of free options too. Booking in advance secures seats for the best family-friendly shows.

A person dressed as a gold statue to entertain people on the streets during Edinburgh Fringe.

Tips for Visiting the Edinburgh Fringe Festival With Kids

The Fringe is a welcoming festival that showcases a diverse range of art and talent.

Book tickets to any family-friendly shows in advance to avoid them selling out. Plan your route to ensure you arrive at the venue on time in Edinburgh. Shows are often held in back rooms that may be difficult to locate.

Visiting the Fringe does not need to be all that your family does in Edinburgh. Take breaks to see some of the city’s highlights, visit a park, take a tour or enjoy some Scottish food.

Remember to prioritise safety, especially in crowded areas; have a plan with your children in case you get separated. Staying in central accommodation will reduce travel time, allowing your family to take breaks from the festival without worrying about transportation.

Street performers entertaining a crowd of spectators during the Edinburgh Fringe.

Family Accommodation

Summer in Edinburgh is peak tourist season, as reflected in the availability and prices of accommodation. The Old Town city centre is an ideal location for families, allowing you to return in the middle of the day; however, cheaper accommodation will be further away.

Booking early will secure a room, but it will not guarantee a budget-friendly visit.

Here are our recommendations for staying in central Edinburgh in mid-range family accommodation: Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel & Apex Waterloo Place Hotel

Dining In Edinburgh

There are many eateries across Edinburgh where families can have a meal. Booking a table is recommended during the August festival.

We tend to go with the flow, eat local street food, and carry some snacks in our bag for convenience. Top stops include Duck & Waffle, Makars Mash Bar and Mary’s Milk Bar

Street performers entertaining crowds in Edinburgh city.

Transport In Edinburgh

Edinburgh has excellent transport in and around the city. Once in the city by road, train or air, local buses and trams have reliable routes to major Fringe venues.

The festival is spread across the city in numerous accessible areas and venues.

Day tickets on buses offer families unlimited travel, and children under five travel free of charge. Alternatively, keep within walking distance of the city centre for plenty of festival fun.

Visiting Edinburgh Fringe Festival: FAQ

If you are uncertain whether the Edinburgh Fringe is worth it with your family, these frequently asked questions may help.

Is Edinburgh busy during the Fringe Festival?

Edinburgh is a busy city year-round. The crowds do increase during the Fringe Festival as it coincides with the peak summer season. Streets and venues fill with a friendly atmosphere of tourists and locals enjoying the entertainment.

Is the Edinburgh Fringe Festival free?

The Edinburgh Fringe features a diverse mix of free and ticketed events throughout the festival, with many street performances performing on a “pay-what-you-can” or “pay-what-it’s-worth” system, making them accessible to all.

Can anyone visit the Edinburgh Fringe?

The Fringe Festival is open to all ages, with no official entry fee. Visitors can attend programmed shows and events in venues and on the streets throughout the city of Edinburgh.

Crowds watching a street performer on a uni-cycle during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Final Thoughts | Edinburgh Fringe Festival Is Worth Visiting

Although Edinburgh is at its busiest with crowds during August, the Fringe is one of the city’s best festivals. The city comes alive with fun, festivities, and laughter on the streets and in venues featuring international performers, while Edinburgh’s historic charm remains on display.

Every year, we are surprised by the variety of acts that spark imagination, interest and form memories with our family. The Edinburgh Fringe Festival deserves a place on your family bucket list!