Scotland’s professional basketball club, Caledonia Gladiators, is encouraging fans to secure their seats for the 2026/27 season, with Season Tickets now offering greater value than ever across both the men’s and women’s teams.
Fixtures are now confirmed with the Gladiators returning to East Kilbride this September for their fourth season at the 1,600-capacity Arena at Playsport, with the new campaign bringing another season of top-level basketball to Scotland.
With players travelling from as far as the US and as close to home as Falkirk, fans can secure their place at every home game through a Season Ticket, with packages designed to make following the Gladiators throughout the season more accessible.
Season Tickets for the women’s team start from just £115, while men’s Season Tickets start from £280. Junior Season Tickets are available from £54, while families can follow the women’s team for £284 for a family of four, with a family Season Ticket for the men’s team available for £625.
The value-led pricing comes as the Gladiators continue to see their fanbase grow across both teams. Following the women’s historic campaign at the Playoff Finals earlier this year, Season Ticket sales for women’s games have already increased by 20%, highlighting the growing appetite for women’s basketball and the momentum behind the club.
Season Ticket holders become part of the new and exclusive Courtside Club to benefit from a host of exclusive perks, including a guaranteed seat at every home game, discounts, exclusive access to players, discounts with club partners and more.
Tony McDaid, CEO of Caledonia Gladiators, said: “We want to make following the Gladiators for the season as accessible and rewarding as possible, whether you’re a long-time supporter, a family coming to basketball for the first time or a fan who wants to make sure they never miss a game.
“We’ve introduced a new Season Ticket structure that we believe offers fantastic value across both our men’s and women’s teams, while giving supporters the chance to be part of everything we are building here in Scotland.
“In particular, we know how important families are to our club, so being able to offer junior Season Tickets from just £54 and family packages that make watching live basketball more affordable is something we’re really pleased to introduce.
“Our ambition is to build a basketball nation and our supporters are at the heart of that. A Season Ticket is more than just a seat – it’s the opportunity to be there for the big moments, support our players and be part of the Gladiators community throughout the season.”
Caledonia Gladiators will officially return to the court on 20 September 2026 at 4pm for the 2026/27 Season Opener, with the men taking on Super League Basketball’s newest team, Liverpool Basketball, for the first time.
With fixtures now confirmed, fans can secure their Season Tickets now and guarantee their seat for the campaign, while benefiting from the club’s new value-led pricing structure.
Season Tickets and individual game tickets are available now at:
The Besties awards celebrating the best across Edinburgh’s August Festivals are now in their third year. The Award is a partnership between Radge Media, Capital Theatres and Premier Scotland.
The Skinny and Fest, Capital Theatres and Premier Scotland are delighted to announce the week one winners of The Besties.
This award was selected by the young people who participated in this year’s Superpower Agency critical writing summer camp, a collaboration with the teams at The Skinny and Fest.
Five women went to teach theatre for the summer. They just didn’t know the world would end before camp did. In Stanislavski Can’t Save Me From The Apocalypse, life at a theatre camp in the northern woods of Maine takes a shocking turn when five counsellors suddenly become responsible for more than forty campers after the world ends on the final day of camp. Their artistic dreams collide with the abrupt demands of survival, forcing women who once built imaginary worlds onstage to confront a terrifying new reality offstage.
The young reviewers said, “We really enjoyed this innovative theatre production, set at a kid’s theatre camp in the aftermath of the apocalypse. This is an ambitious show that takes risks with its unconventional structure and pulls them off. They did a lot with a tiny venue, minimal set and a cast who were passionate and talented. The characters were realistic and the show’s depiction of young adult friendship was funny and relatable. A hopeful and meaningful take on a potentially dark subject.”
Believing themselves to be revolutionary leaders, two overconfident artists attempt to liberate the masses through the power of theatre. Ethan & Gigi are here to upstage fascist pigs and break legs (literally). The revolution will not be televised, it will be live! Alt-comedian legend Chris Gethard says: ‘These kids are funny, brave, some of the hardest workers I’ve ever met and also might be legitimately unwell in a mental sense. Either way, huge fan. Restores my faith and makes me believe in the connective power of comedy.’
The Skinny/Fest editorial team said: “Ethan and Gigi’s commitment to the bit is what makes this faux so-bad-it’s-good comedy stand out from the rest. A pair of revolutionaries riddled with interpersonal issues but convinced they’re on the brink of an anti-fascist revolutionary movement, the New York clown duo never let you see where they start and the characters end. There are big, insane swings in this show that wears its brashness deceptively lightly; swings that you’re only likely to see at The Fringe.”
Two teenagers perform fake Bigfoot sightings in their Appalachian town, until a neighbour’s dog turns up torn to pieces. Aside from sparking a panic that spirals out of their control, it forces them to question what might actually be terrorizing their under-resourced and already superstitious community. From 2022, 2023 and 2024 Fringe First award-winners and ‘the Fringe’s most dynamic theatrical duo’ (Telegraph), Xhloe and Natasha, comes a Brechtian puppet show ripped in two about conspiracy, misdirection and seeing something with your own eyes.
The Skinny/Fest editorial team said: “It may be early in the 2026 Fringe to declare a legend award, but the judging team could think of no title more fitting for clown duo Xhloe and Natasha. Since their 2022 debut with And Then the Rodeo Burned Down they’ve built a devoted following amongst Fringe-goers in general and the Skinny-Fest teams in particular. This year they’ve returned with their fourth original show, Bigfoot Ripped My Dog In Half I Saw It, and it has once again lived up to the hype.”
‘I’m sorry, I’ve said too much…’ Sky Arts Award-winning comedian Elf Lyons is The Woman on the Edge. A completely normal, autobiographical (and in no way complex) – observational stand-up show about love. A perfect show to take yourself to. Inspired by Vertigo, Apollo 13, the opera Pagliacci. Directed by Ingmar Bergman. One of The Telegraph’s 50 Funniest Comedians of the 21st Century.
The Skinny/Fest editorial team said: “The Fringe has practically belonged to Elf Lyons for a while now. Swan was mad; Raven was fit for a King. So to hear, in Elf’s new show, that she had lost herself earlier this year was heart-rending. If someone so singular can lose sight of who they are, what hope is there for the rest of us? By the end of her new hour, there’s no question that that isn’t the case anymore.”
Bzzzz. Enter the surrealist world of a house fly. She’s come to share her story before she dies! In an astonishing historical first, a house fly has learnt human behaviour. Wanting to warn us about the worldwide insect shortage but getting lost along the way. This is Tess O’Shea’s first show after training at Gaulier clown school – it’s a theatrical exploration on the life of a fly and their cultural history. Come and see a fly’s observations on the absurdity of modern life, inspired by Kafka and the surrealism of Dali. Swatters strictly prohibited!
Fest writer Xuanlin Tham said: “the humble fly is often constituted as nothing more than a filthy pest. Yet carrying on in the grand surrealist tradition of Kafka, Dalí, and also Ratatouille (masterpiece), Tess O’Shea’s House Fly paints the life story of one fly so vividly that the last thing you want to do is swat it away … The buzz is real.”
At 17, Eva moved from Livingston to Costa Rica on her own. She dropped out of school and moved to Costa Rica a boy-mad wee bam. She came back a bald lesbian without shoes. A fast, brutally funny debut about how you can take the girl out of Livingston, but maybe Costa Rica is too far. ‘One of the best young acts on the Scottish circuit’ (One4Review.co.uk). ‘A rising star’ (List). Support for Kim Blythe, Sam Nicoresti and Susie McCabe.
The Skinny/Fest editorial team said: “Eva Peroni is anything if not precocious. The 22-year-old’s debut Fringe hour is crammed with joke after joke, drawing on themes of identity and belonging and remaining sharp and uncompromising throughout. Taking inspiration from her coming-of-age in Costa Rica, the comic probes questions of national identity and Scottishness, with tongue firmly in cheek…”
Reflecting the broad and diverse coverage both magazines produce every summer and celebrating the breadth of Edinburgh’s Festivals, The Besties span all the festival activity taking place in the city over the month of August, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Edinburgh International Festival, Edinburgh Art Festival, Edinburgh International Book Festival and the Edinburgh International Film Festival.
Winners of The Besties are chosen each week by the editorial teams of The Skinny and Fest, drawing on their cross-festival expertise to celebrate the best work happening anywhere in the festivals. 2026 winners will be announced at weekly ceremonies taking place at Festival Theatre in Edinburgh on 15, 22 and 29 August.
The Besties awards, designed by artist Camillo Feuchter a graduate of Interior & Environmental Design at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design in Dundee, use recyclable plastics gathered by the partners and leftover wood sourced locally.
There are now just 10 stalls remaining at the Volunteer Edinburgh Recruitment Fair 2026 — and the deadline to book is fast approaching.
If your organisation is looking to recruit new volunteers, this is your last chance to be part of the event.
The Recruitment Fair brings together over 1,000 potential volunteers and more than 50 charities, community groups and voluntary organisations under one roof. It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet people face-to-face, showcase what you do and talk directly to people who are actively looking for ways to get involved.
Don’t miss the opportunity to put your organisation in front of hundreds of enthusiastic potential volunteers.
By not attending, you could be missing out on conversations, connections and potential new volunteers who could make a real difference to your organisation.
Why you should be there
Meet hundreds of people interested in volunteering
Promote your organisation and current opportunities
Have conversations with potential volunteers face-to-face
Connect with your local community
Raise awareness of the difference your organisation makes
Find new volunteers who could help your organisation thrive
Event Details
Tuesday 1 September 2026 10am – 5.30pm St Paul’s and St George’s Church, York Place, Edinburgh
Don’t Leave It Too Late
Only 10 stalls remain and bookings close on Friday 21 August.
Once those final spaces are gone, that’s it.
If you’ve been considering joining us, now is the time to book. Don’t let your organisation miss out on one of Edinburgh’s biggest opportunities to connect with potential volunteers.
We’d love to see your organisation there — but don’t miss your chance to be one of our 2026 stallholders!
‘Our aim is simple: to put local people at the heart of this campus’
Cutting-edge building replaces existing Liberton High School as part of new community, lifelong learning and sports campus
Staff and pupils at Liberton High School have started the new school year in their brand new state-of-the-art learning and community campus this week, after the building was handed over to the Council.
Balfour Beatty was appointed by the Council to deliver the new building, which has been designed by jmarchitects. The new campus has been formed with the needs of learners in mind. To encourage collaborative learning, the school building features breakout and retreat spaces to offer pupils choice on where they want to work, socialise or take time out.
Large windows fill the building with natural light, while helping to connect departments and classrooms with outdoor spaces. Internal spaces have been decorated with warm colours and light woods to create comfortable spaces for learning and coming together.
Outdoor sports facilities include a new 3G synthetic rugby and football pitch and a multi-use games area. A new grass recreation area that can be lined for football or other sports activities will be added following the demolition of the former Liberton High School building.
The 1,200-space school forms the centrepiece of the new Liberton Community Campus, a multi-purpose facility to help meet the needs of young people, their families and the wider community.
Its spaces have been designed to allow all generations to come together in a number of ways, including a community café, library, GP surgery and workspaces for Council partners. New sports facilities operated by Edinburgh Leisure will feature bookable amenities for the whole community, including a fitness suite and dance studio.
Information on when the other community facilities within the building will be ready for use will be published soon.
The new Community Campus has been built to Passivhaus standard, minimising energy consumption and reducing the reliance on active heating or cooling systems, ensuring sustainable and eco-friendly construction.
In addition to the Passivhaus design, the new school contains other sustainable features supporting the Council to meet its sustainability commitments. This includes measures to improve the air quality and thermal performance of the building which are vital to achieving Passivhaus certification.
The new school building has been designed in line with the guiding principles of the Scottish Government’s Learning Estate Strategy and is one of the projects in the second phase of the Scottish Government’s Learning Estate Investment Programme, alongside the project to redevelop Wester Hailes High School.
Children, Education and Families Convener, Councillor James Dalgleish, said: “The opening of the new Liberton High School marks a major milestone for pupils, staff and the wider community.
“This building has been designed to be futureproof with sustainability at its core, and I’m proud that it stands as one of Scotland’s first Passivhaus secondary schools.
“The school’s leadership team has played a crucial role in shaping a learning environment that puts the needs of young people first, while also meeting our commitments to a net‑zero future.
“This project is however about more than just a school. It’s the foundation of a community lifelong‑learning and sports hub that will bring together education, public services and local amenities in one accessible place, from a Community Library to an NHS GP Surgery. This reflects our ‘Living Well Locally’ strategy, ensuring local services are co‑located where people need them most.
“Our aim is simple: to put local people at the heart of this campus, giving everyone the opportunity to learn, participate and thrive.
“I’m delighted that this exceptional new building will help to bring more local people in the community together, and we’re looking forward to announcing more about the new community facilities soon.”
Stuart Danskin, Project Director at Balfour Beatty said: “As Balfour Beatty’s first Passivhaus secondary school and the centrepiece of the new Liberton Community Campus, the successful completion of Liberton High School demonstrates our expertise in delivering innovative and sustainable infrastructure that creates lasting value for communities.
People across England and Wales receive an Emergency Alert on their phones as the Government steps up action to protect communities from the growing threat posed by wildfires
Emergency Alert to be sent to people across England and Wales as wildfire risk remains very high
Prime Minister visits fire-hit communities and announces support package for firefighters and local residents
Immediate ban on disposable barbecues introduced to help prevent further fires
People across England and Wales have received an Emergency Alert on their phones as the Government steps up action to protect communities from the growing threat posed by wildfires.
The alert, sent on a rolling basis from approximately 19:00 last night, warns people not to light anything that could spark a fire, including barbecues, campfires, and fireworks. Recipients will also be urged to report any fire immediately by calling 999.
The move comes as firefighters continue to battle the effects of major incidents across parts of the country, following some of the most challenging conditions seen in recent years.
The Prime Minister visited Stourbridge yesterday to meet residents affected by wildfire damage and thank firefighters, emergency responders and local resilience partners who have worked around the clock to protect lives and property.
As part of the Government’s action to protect local areas and prevent further fires, the Prime Minister announced a package of immediate support for communities and frontline services.
This includes emergency funding for fire and rescue services facing the greatest operational pressures, military assistance in South Wales where around 100 personnel have been immediately deployed to support response and recovery efforts, and a temporary nationwide ban on the sale of disposable barbecues. A further 100 members of the Armed Forces will deploy this evening.
Retailers have been informed that disposable barbecues must be removed from sale immediately. The temporary measure will remain under review but will stay in place while the heightened wildfire risk continues.
The Government is also calling on insurers to process claims as quickly as possible for affected households and businesses, ensuring families receive support without unnecessary delay.
For areas hardest hit by wildfire damage, the Bellwin Scheme remains available to help local authorities meet exceptional recovery costs, while ministers stand ready to consider requests swiftly.
Alongside the immediate response, the Government is looking at longer-term resilience. Later this year, ministers will convene a national wildfire summit bringing together fire chiefs, the National Fire Chiefs Council, the Fire Brigades Union and other partners to strengthen future preparedness and consider what additional capabilities may be required to respond to increasingly severe weather events.
The summit will build on the Government’s existing investment in wildfire resilience, including £97 million for fire service training and specialist equipment.
The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government has also written to local authorities across England reminding them of the powers available to restrict activities that could increase fire risk, including the use of Public Spaces Protection Orders to limit barbecues, campfires and other forms of open fire in vulnerable areas.
The Government is working closely with local authorities, emergency services and devolved administrations to monitor conditions and take further action where necessary.
The latest measures follow a meeting of COBR chaired by the Prime Minister earlier this week. To reduce the pressures on emergency services, people are reminded to be extra cautious in the dry conditions. This means:
Do not light fires, or open flames, in the countryside or other open spaces, including parks, moorland and wooded areas.
Never leave a household barbecue unattended and ensure it is fully extinguished after use.
Dispose of smoking materials carefully and never throw cigarette ends from vehicles.
Take litter home, particularly glass bottles which can intensify sunlight and increase fire risk.
Call 999 immediately if they see signs of a fire.
First Secretary, Louise Haigh, said: “In response to the continued risk proposed by wildfires, the government has taken the decision to issue an Emergency Alert to England and Wales.This is the most extensive use of the UK’s Emergency Alert system in response to an active incident, and reflects the seriousness with which the government is acting to safeguard people and property.
“During this period of extreme heat, we are asking people to take simple steps to limit the risk of further fires. By following the safety guidance, everyone can play their part in protecting local communities and supporting our frontline services who are working around the clock to keep people safe.
“The government will continue to provide every assistance to communities being impacted by these fires, including the deployment of 100 additional military personnel in major incident areas.”
Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Angela Rayner said: “It is awful to see the devastation fires have caused across the country. I’m very grateful to all the first responders working so hard to keep people safe. A number of firefighters were taken to hospital as a result of incidents yesterday and I pay tribute to their bravery and commitment.
“As the Prime Minister said, we will do everything to make sure our fire services have the resources they need from us and our support to deal with the unprecedented risks being driven by this heatwave.
“As well as supporting firefighters on the ground now, my department will hold a summit bringing together fire chiefs, the National Fire Chiefs’ Council, the Fire Brigades Union and other key organisations to look at our future response.
“To the residents affected, particularly those who lost their homes and their life’s possessions to fire – we will work with the mayor and local leaders to make sure you are supported.”
Landmark report evidences the profound impacts of the Edinburgh Festivals, confirming them as one of the most remarkable demonstrations of cultural power in the world
Picture by JANE BARLOW
In the latest of a long line of internationally acclaimed impact studies, the Edinburgh Festivals have published their most recent research across a series of cultural, social and economic indicators – which shows that at a fundamental level the festivals make life better – for residents, artists, visitors, and businesses.
The research identifies the Edinburgh Festivals as a unique civic asset that enhances wellbeing through creative and community engagement, an unrivalled international springboard for Scottish artists and companies, and a major attraction for those choosing to live, work, visit and invest in Edinburgh. The findings clearly indicate that the Festivals define Scotland’s cultural identity on the global stage.
Introducing the latest Impact Study on 29 June, Professor Daisy Fancourt, Director of WHO Collaborating Centre on Arts and Health and UNESCO Chair in Arts & Global Health as well as author of Art Cure: How the Arts Can Transform Your Health and Help You Live Longer said: “The Edinburgh Festivals have long stood as one of the world’s most remarkable demonstrations of the power of arts and culture.
“Shared cultural experiences create opportunities for dialogue, build understanding and challenge ideas. They bring people together across generations, backgrounds and perspectives, helping to build trust and social cohesion. At a time when many communities are grappling with social fragmentation and unrest, cultural participation offers powerful opportunities to strengthen civic life and nurture a sense of common purpose.
“The Festivals show what is possible when culture is placed at the heart of civic life, and this report provides a powerful case for the importance ofsustaining and investing in their future for generations to come.”
The research affirms that while the individual festivals are powerful brands in their respective fields, collectively they are both a unique national asset and a global phenomenon. They are an integral part of the cultural and social fabric of the country and provide an opportunity to showcase a 21st century nation.
The headline findings in this publication show the Edinburgh Festivals as:
cultural adventurers, with 90% of audiences acclaiming the festivals as unique places of cultural discovery
civic drivers, that enhance community well-being with 79% of local audiences stating that the festivals make Edinburgh a special place to live
national investors, spending more than £10m annually with event production companies and creative talent based in Scotland
economic powerhouses, calculated to have a gross economic impact of £4.26 billion over the next five years in Scotland.
Commenting on the publication of the Impact Study, the Scottish Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Education, Culture and Gaelic, Màiri McAllan MSP said: “The Edinburgh Festivals are truly world class — and this research confirms their extraordinary cultural, social and economic value to Scotland.
“A projected national economic impact of £4.26 billion over the coming five years, 90% of audiences describing them as unique places of cultural discovery, and 79% of Edinburgh residents saying they make the city a special place to live — these are remarkable findings.
“As we approach the 80th anniversary of Edinburgh’s status as a festival city, the Scottish Government is proud to champion the festivals and committed to ensuring they continue to thrive for the benefit of people across Scotland and on the global stage.”
Councillor Margaret Graham, Culture and Communities Convener at City of Edinburgh Council, said: “Edinburgh’s festivals are at the heart of what makes our city so special, bringing together residents and visitors to enjoy thousands of shows and events throughout the year.
“This research highlights that these celebrations deliver significant cultural, social, and economic benefits, supporting local communities and businesses while enhancing the city’s global reputation.
“As we approach the 80th anniversary of our festivals, we remain committed to supporting their future while balancing the needs of residents, visitors, and business, ensuring Edinburgh continues to thrive as a world-leading festival city.”
Vicki Miller, Chief Executive of VisitScotland, said: “Edinburgh’s festivals are world renowned, and a key part of what makes Scotland a must-visit destination, drawing thousands of international visitors to the country each year.
FURTHER FINDINGS INCLUDE:
The Edinburgh Festivals have seen a major expansion in their community reach
Alongside its global scale, the report identifies a major expansion in the Festivals’ community footprint. They offer residents of the city and substantial audiences of all ages throughout Scotland, opportunities that support creative expression, social connection and wellbeing, while breaking down barriers, enhancing community cohesion and civic pride.
These core principles were fundamental building blocks of the PlaCE [Partnerships for Creative Excellence] programme, a pioneering three-way partnership between Edinburgh Festivals, Scottish Government and the City of Edinburgh Council. Almost 76,000 community participants took part across the life of the programme.
Over the five years spanning 2018 to 2023, the Festivals delivered a 489% increase in engagement with community groups, a 39% increase in schools participation (from 497 to 694) and a 245% increase in partnership activity.
This growth reflects a significant development of year-round activity and more equitable access, with programmes increasingly reaching communities less likely to have engaged with the Festivals in the past.
The Edinburgh Festivals are a civic asset as well as a global platform
The report reinforces the Festivals’ role within the city itself. Edinburgh residents account for around one third of all attendances, with 79% of local audiences identifying the Festivals as central to the city’s identity and sense of place, making it a special place to live. And 89.9% of audiences say that the Festivals create a welcoming environment in the city.
This dual role – as both a global cultural gathering and a locally rooted civic asset – is identified as a defining feature of the Edinburgh Festivals.
The Edinburgh Festivals are a key investor in Scotland’s creative economy
Beyond audience impact, the Festivals continue to act as a major investor in Scotland’s cultural sector, supporting artists, production companies and creative organisations across the country.
Annual spend with Scottish-based creative talent and production companies exceeds £10 million, helping to sustain jobs, develop skills and build international connections across the sector.
The Edinburgh Festivals provide a platform for Scotland on the world stage
With participants from over 80 countries and audiences from more than 100 countries, the Festivals play a central role in projecting Scotland internationally, showcasing a 21st century nation
The report affirms the Edinburgh Festivals as a globally significant cultural marketplace, while remaining deeply embedded within Scotland’s communities and creative industries. Both a unique national asset, part of the cultural and social fabric of the country, and a global phenomenon making up part of the appeal that will drive Scotland forward.
The Edinburgh Festivals are economic powerhouses
The Edinburgh Festivals delivered an estimated £558 million in net economic impact for Edinburgh and £852 million across Scotland in 2025.
A central finding of the research is that this economic impact is driven by the quality and innovation within the Festivals’ cultural programmes which drive attendances, with 90% of audiences acclaiming the festivals as unique places of cultural discovery
The report concludes that investment in programming is the primary factor that attracts global audiences and generates wider economic activity across tourism, hospitality and the creative industries. With the right investment the future impact is expected to reach £4.26 billion over the next five years.
The findings underline the Festivals’ position as a major national asset, operating at a scale rarely seen in global cultural events. With over 4 million attendances drawn from more than 100 countries last year, Edinburgh hosts one of the largest ticketed event programmes in the world every year, on a scale equivalent with less frequent major events such as the Olympic Games and FIFA World Cup.
Cultural events like these provide authentic and immersive experiences for people across Scotland and from around the world and are vital in strengthening our international profile and supporting local businesses, artists, and performers.”
Lori Anderson, Director of Festivals Edinburgh stated:
‘We are facing challenging times which call for boldness, direction, and vision – and the Edinburgh Festivals, through their pioneering collaborative work, focused strategic thinking, and hugely praised programmes, have these qualities in abundance. They have a powerful role to play in increasing the creative capacity, economic strength, and international reputation of Scotland. Ahead of the 80th anniversary of the birth of our world leading festival city, now is the time to champion and invest in the Festivals’ success.’
Further findings in the Impact Study include:
The Edinburgh Festivals have seen a major expansion in their community reach
Alongside its global scale, the report identifies a major expansion in the Festivals’ community footprint. They offer residents of the city and substantial audiences of all ages throughout Scotland, opportunities that support creative expression, social connection and wellbeing, while breaking down barriers, enhancing community cohesion and civic pride.
These core principles were fundamental building blocks of the PlaCE [Partnerships for Creative Excellence] programme, a pioneering three-way partnership between Edinburgh Festivals, Scottish Government and the City of Edinburgh Council. Almost 76,000 community participants took part across the life of the programme.
Over the five years spanning 2018 to 2023, the Festivals delivered a 489% increase in engagement with community groups, a 39% increase in schools participation (from 497 to 694) anda 245% increase in partnership activity.
This growth reflects a significant development of year-round activity and more equitable access, with programmes increasingly reaching communities less likely to have engaged with the Festivals in the past.
The Edinburgh Festivals are a civic asset as well as a global platform
The report reinforces the Festivals’ role within the city itself. Edinburgh residents account for around one third of all attendances, with 79% of local audiences identifying the Festivals as central to the city’s identity and sense of place, making it a special place to live. And 89.9% of audiences say that the Festivals create a welcoming environment in the city.
This dual role – as both a global cultural gathering and a locally rooted civic asset – is identified as a defining feature of the Edinburgh Festivals.
The Edinburgh Festivals are a key investor in Scotland’s creative economy
Beyond audience impact, the Festivals continue to act as a major investor in Scotland’s cultural sector, supporting artists, production companies and creative organisations across the country.
Annual spend with Scottish-based creative talent and production companies exceeds £10 million, helping to sustain jobs, develop skills and build international connections across the sector.
The Edinburgh Festivals provide a platform for Scotland on the world stage
With participants from over80 countries and audiences from more than 100 countries, the Festivals play a central role in projecting Scotland internationally, showcasing a 21st century nation.
The report affirms the Edinburgh Festivals as a globally significant cultural marketplace, while remaining deeply embedded within Scotland’s communities and creative industries. Both a unique national asset, part of the cultural and social fabric of the country, and a global phenomenon making up part of the appeal that will drive Scotland forward.
The Edinburgh Festivals are economic powerhouses
The Edinburgh Festivals delivered an estimated £558 million in net economic impact for Edinburgh and £852 million across Scotland in 2025.
A central finding of the research is that this economic impact is driven by the quality and innovation within the Festivals’ cultural programmes which drive attendances. 90% of audiences acclaimed the festivals as unique places of cultural discovery.
The report concludes that investment in programming is the primary factor that attracts global audiences and generates wider economic activity across tourism, hospitality and the creative industries. With the right investment the future impact is expected to reach £4.26 billion over the next five years.
The findings underline the Festivals’ position as a major national asset, operating at a scale rarely seen in global cultural events. With over 4 million attendances drawn from more than 100 countries last year, Edinburgh hosts one of the largest ticketed event programmes in the world every year, on a scale equivalent with less frequent major events such as the Olympic Games and FIFA World Cup.
Visually impaired secret shoppers are going undercover at Edinburgh Festival Fringe venues to put accessibility to the test, assessing whether training and awareness work are translating into a better experience for disabled audiences.
The volunteers, who have helped deliver accessibility training to Fringe staff and performers over the past two years, have been carrying out unannounced visits across the city to identify what’s working, highlight barriers, and help drive further improvements.
The secret shoppers, who are members of Sight Loss Councils Scotland and Sight Scotland’s Policy Group, have welcomed the progress made so far, highlighting accessibility training and stronger collaboration with venues as key drivers of change. However, they emphasise that accessibility must remain a year-round priority, with all venues continuing to build on recent improvements to ensure they are welcoming, inclusive and accessible to everyone.
Over the past two years, Callum Lancashire, Engagement Manager for Sight Loss Councils Scotland, who has macular degeneration, has helped deliver accessibility training to venues at the Fringe and at Glasgow’s Celtic Connections festival, helping staff develop the skills and awareness needed to better support visitors with visual impairments.
He explains: “We have seen first-hand how accessibility is improving, particularly when venues are willing to listen, learn and take practical steps to make a difference.
“Over the past two years, we have worked alongside our rehabilitation colleagues at Sight Scotland to deliver accessibility training for venues across the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, including the Pleasance, and it has made a big difference.
“What is really encouraging is that we don’t just deliver the training and walk away. Afterwards, our volunteers go back as secret shoppers, visit the venue, attend shows and experience the customer journey for themselves. That gives us a unique insight into whether the training is making a difference, and in many cases the impact has been huge.
“Many of the changes we’re talking about are simple to implement. Often, it’s just about raising awareness and helping people understand the small adjustments that can make a big difference. It’s about making staff aware of visual impairment, helping them understand the barriers people can face, and giving them the confidence to offer assistance when needed. Those aren’t major changes for a venue to make, but they can make a huge difference to somebody’s experience.
“Something as simple as clearly introducing yourself, offering sighted guidance, explaining the layout of a space, or proactively asking if someone needs help can completely transform a visit. It helps people feel welcome, included and able to enjoy the festival independently.
“We have now worked with venues across the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, supported organisations involved in Celtic Connections, and have a number of new partnerships in the pipeline.
“We know this approach works because we’ve seen the impact first-hand. More and more venues from across Scotland are reaching out to us to take part in our accessibility training and events, which is hugely encouraging.
“Accessibility is improving, but there is still more to be done. Every venue has a responsibility to make it a priority. A person with a visual impairment should be able to enjoy a show just as much as anyone else.”
Colette Walker, Co-Chair of Sight Scotland’s Policy Group and a guide dog user, adds: “This training is a gamechanger.
“By equipping frontline teams with the awareness, empathy and practical understanding they need, we empower venues to go far beyond basic compliance, to truly see people, anticipate barriers, and offer support that feels natural, respectful and empowering.
“For me and thousands of others with visual impairments, that means being able to walk into a festival venue with my guide dog, navigate with confidence, and enjoy every moment just like anyone else.
“It’s not just about ramps or wide doors, its clear information, thoughtful signage, straightforward ticketing, and staff who know exactly how and when to step in and use clear communication. These are often small, simple changes, yet they make a life changing difference: the freedom to choose, to attend independently, to belong.
“This builds powerfully on the findings from Sight Scotland’s Accessible Venues Report proving that when we listen, act, and design for everyone, we all win.”
Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans have also been working with Extant, the UK’s leading professional performing arts company of blind and visually impaired artists, to promote and celebrate visually impaired talent while advancing accessibility across the festival.
Council Leader Jane Meagher has met with business representatives, heritage organisations, community groups and Councillors to provide an update on efforts to reopen Princes Street.
The meeting also discussed the Council’s wider response to the disruption.
Cllr Meagher hosted the summit in the City Chambers on Wednesday evening, at which council officers set out in detail the complexity of making the former Debenhams building safe to allow the thoroughfare to reopen.
Initial proposals for a communications campaign to promote those businesses and communities most affected by the disruption were also presented and discussed. This will also include resident and visitor spend incentives, events and other promotions.
This activity will be paid for from the Scottish Government funding announced last week and would continue beyond the reopening of Princes Street and into next year.
Key points from the on-site progress update:
Five weeks on from the fire, work on site continues to progress well. The focus continues to be on making the building safe – allowing Princes Street to reopen – while aiming to retain as many of its historic features as possible.
This is complex and challenging work which is carried out from cranes by a team of highly skilled engineers.
The eastern gable of the building has been secured and made safe. This involved reducing it in height by approximately two metres and supporting it with scaffolding.
The front façade of the building is now being stabilised with steel beams – more than 40% of these are now in place internally and externally to support the western end of the Princes Street façade – with work ongoing on the remainder of the upper floors.
Several tonnes of bricks and unsafe stonework – some weighing as much as 850kg – from the upper levels of the façade have been carefully removed and carefully stored on site for reuse.
Debris and dangerous materials continue to be removed from inside the building – with several tonnes already removed.
Subject to favourable weather conditions (this restricts when this can be done safely) the hope is that work carried out will allow Princes Street to reopen by the end of August.
Council Leader Jane Meagher said:“We’ve been working tirelessly to make sure Princes Street can fully reopen and I’m reassured by the progress being made. It goes without saying that we want to do this as soon as possible – but only when it is safe to do so.
“I want to reiterate just how complicated, hazardous and challenging this work is – and it was helpful to be able to share more of this detail during, what was, a very positive and constructive meeting with local business and community representatives last night.
“I was extremely grateful to all those who attended and gave us their feedback – which I committed to taking on board, either immediately or as part of our lessons learned exercise that will follow. I also welcomed the views of Edinburgh World Heritage and the Scottish Architectural Society who spoke in praise of the steps we’re taking to preserve an important part of our city’s heritage.
“Clearly, the resulting disruption continues to have a significant effect on businesses, particularly on the north end of the tram route, and last night we outlined our plans for a communications campaign to promote Leith, the Shore and Newhaven – and everything all they have to offer for our residents and visitors.
“This is being developed very much in partnership with the businesses and communities themselves – and we hope it will encourage people to visit businesses in the area well into the future.
“What also came across strongly last night was the effect this is having on our residents who are struggling to get to work, meet commitments or make appointments. I want to put on record again my thanks for your patience and understanding and to reiterate my determination to bring this disruption to an end as soon as it is safe to do so.
“In the meantime, I want to give special thanks to Lothian Buses, particularly their drivers, for their support in keeping the city moving.”
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Tuesday 1 September 2026
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