7 Edinburgh Festivals in May You Shouldn’t Miss!
Edinburgh is the city of festivals and although it’s only May, and there are still a couple of months until the Edinburgh International Festival arrives, that doesn’t mean there still aren’t plenty of fun Edinburgh festivals in May! To ensure you don’t miss out, we’ve selected 7 that we think you should be aware of, and here they are.
1. Edinburgh International Magic Festival
- 11th-19th May
- Various Venues
- www.pintofscience.co.uk/events/edinburgh
Described as “The best magicians in the world, in the world’s most magical city” Edinburgh’s International Magic Festival is an annual arts festival that celebrates magic. It all started in 2010 and has grown to be the UK’s largest magic event! This year promises to be as magical as ever and with a stellar line up including the Wizard World Gathering in Assembly Roxy in Edinburgh where you’ll receive a complimentary colour-changing cocktail on arrival, MagicFest Gala returns to the Royal Lyceum Theatre, Explore untold mysteries in the Secret Room, as well as 5-day programme featuring work from the best Scottish and UK talent.
2. Pint of Science Festival
- 14th-16th May
- 8 venues across the city
- www.pintofscience.co.uk/events/edinburgh
This is a brilliant concept that combines science and having a pint at a nice pub. Pint of Science brings accomplished scientists to your local pub where they will discuss their latest research and findings with you. You don’t need any prior knowledge, and this is your chance to meet the people responsible for the future of science (and have a pint with them). The festival takes place in 8 venues across Edinburgh, ranging from the Voodoo Rooms to Frankenstein Bar. Topics are varied from connecting technology and society, dementia, underwater sustainability, plus much more!
3. Festival of Museums
- 18th-20th May
- Various Locations
- www.festivalofmuseums.co.uk/events
Festival of Museums is an annual three-day celebration of history, culture and arts during which museums of all shapes and sizes across Scotland host special events to showcase their unique collections and programmes. How about a Museum Marathon of Edinburgh or head along to the City Art Centre for a workshop inspired by Robert Callender’s ‘Plastic Beach’? Or perhaps you would enjoy a stroll in Lauriston’s beautiful Japanese garden, hear traditional Japanese stories and legends, then return to the Castle to make a Japanese blossom picture?
4. Edinburgh Craft Beer Festival
- 25th-27th May
- The Biscuit Factory, Leith
- www.edinburghcraftbeerfestival.co.uk
Edinburgh’s Craft Beer Festival is back and is a must for any beer enthusiast. This is an event where you can taste hundreds of beers from over 36 world class breweries. There are no beer tokens involved as a ticket gets you entry to the event and access to all the beers on for the sessions you choose. Live music, DJs and street food is also on the menu.
5. Edinburgh International Tango Festival
- 25th-27th May
- Teviot Row House, City of Edinburgh Methodist Church & Greyfriars Kirk
- www.eitf.org.uk/events
The Edinburgh International Tango Festival is back for its 11th year! There’s a range of fun events and great workshops to choose from. If you would like to learn how to tango there is also a two-hour intensive beginners course as well as more advanced courses to take part in. Many events are already sold out so hurry if you want to attend!
6. Hidden Door Festival
- 26th May-3rd June
- the old Leith Theatre
- www.hiddendoorblog.org/event
This is one of Edinburgh’s coolest festivals for sure – it’s 100% volunteer run and specialises in transforming forgotten and abandoned places. This year, the festival will return to the old Leith Theatre from 25th May – 3rd June; with 10 days and nights of music, theatre, visual art, film, dance, spoken word, late-night DJs and special events.
7. Edinburgh International Children’s Festival
- 26th May-3rd June
- Various Venues
- www.imaginate.org.uk/festival/whats-on
Previously known as Imaginate Festival, this festival is recognised worldwide as one of the best festivals showcasing children’s theatre and dance. The aim of the festival is to expose young people to performing arts and encourage and inspire children to develop their creativity and emotional intelligence. Lots to experience here for all ages.
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