Edinburgh Fringe 2025: Our guide on what to see, and how, for this year’s festival

Every August, the city of Edinburgh transforms into the epicentre of global culture as performers, audiences, and creatives from every corner of the world descend on Scotland’s capital for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. And 2025 is shaping up to be its most exciting year yet.

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A Bit of Background

Launched in 1947 by eight rebellious theatre companies who turned up uninvited to the newly formed Edinburgh International Festival, the Fringe was born as an alternative celebration of performance. Fast forward 78 years and it’s now the largest arts festival on the planet, hosting thousands of shows across theatre, comedy, cabaret, circus, and more.

While it’s known for launching big names (think Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Richard Gadd, and Hannah Gadsby), it remains a thrilling space to discover rising stars and fresh ideas.

When & Where

Dates: August 1–25, 2025

Location: Venues across Edinburgh, from grand halls to pop-up pubs and university basements. Most are within walking distance of each other, making it ideal for venue-hopping.

What It’ll Cost

Tickets range from £8 to £20, but many shows are part of the Free Fringe, where entry is donation-based. Tip your comics generously! The biggest cost is likely accommodation, which tends to skyrocket during August—so plan ahead or consider day trips if you’re nearby.

Our Fringe Show Picks for 2025

Nish Kumar: Nish, Don’t Kill My Vibe

A blisteringly smart and politically charged comedy hour from one of the UK’s sharpest satirists. Expect razor-edged rants on everything from racism to late-stage capitalism—plus some introspection on what it’s like to be the left’s angry poster boy.

Shamilton! The Improvised Hip-Hop Musical

Love Hamilton but wish it was even more chaotic? This rap-heavy, fast-talking improv show delivers spontaneous musical theatre with freestyle battles, harmonies, and hilarious historical rewrites.

Make It Happen (EIF)

Written by hit playwright James Graham (Quiz, This House) and starring Brian Cox (yep, Succession’s Logan Roy), this is a sharp, satirical deep-dive into the 2008 financial crash through the collapse of RBS. A highlight of the Edinburgh International Festival, and one not to miss.

She’s Behind You

Legendary panto dame Johnny McKnight presents this funny, heartfelt solo show about life in drag and the art of the pantomime. Directed by theatre heavyweight John Tiffany (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child), this one’s both silly and soul-searching.

The Remarkable Ben Hart

Former Britain’s Got Talent finalist and master illusionist Ben Hart returns with his signature blend of charm and jaw-dropping magic. Sleight of hand, theatrical flair, and a few audience surprises guaranteed.

Trainspotting Live!

Get ready for sweat, strobe lights and possibly some splashes. This immersive take on Irvine Welsh’s iconic tale of addiction and anarchy is a Fringe mainstay. Held in its own custom-built venue, it’s visceral, in-your-face, and sells out every year. Choose life. Choose tickets.

How to Get Tickets

You can book everything through the official Edinburgh Fringe website, or walk up to venues and snag day-of tickets at box offices. Pro tip: Queuing early gets you the best seats, as most venues have unreserved seating.

Other Festivals Happening Too

Fringe isn't the only game in town. You’ll also find:

The Edinburgh International Festival (more classical and highbrow)

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (bagpipes and bravado on the castle esplanade)

The Edinburgh International Book Festival

The Art Festival and Film Festival too.

In August, the city is alive with everything.

And a Word on Edinburgh Itself...

Beyond the stage lights and beer-fuelled standing ovations, Edinburgh is a city worth savouring. Wander its cobbled lanes, climb Arthur’s Seat for sweeping views, sip whisky in a hidden bar, or explore its museums and haunted history. The city’s charm lies in its contrasts—ancient and modern, elegant and eccentric!