Police Scotland is appealing to the public to help trace 15-year-old Hollie Thompson, who is reported missing from Grangemouth.
Hollie was last seen walking in the North Bridge and West Regent Street areas of Edinburgh city centre around 5pm on Friday, 5 June, 2026.
She is described as around 5ft 1 in height, of slim build with long brown hair. When last seen, Hollie was wearing a grey leather jacket, a pink top with cherries on it, black leggings and leopard print shoes.
Inspector Thomas Gorman said: “We are looking to trace Hollie who hasn’t been seen for around 24 hours now.
“She was last seen in Edinburgh city centre however several hours have passed so she could have travelled away from that area.
“I would ask anyone who may have seen Hollie, or has any information on her whereabouts to contact Police Scotland, on 101, quoting reference 2912 of 5 June, 2026.”
Living Streets Edinburgh to host special speakers and community discussion on 11 June
Residents from across Edinburgh are being invited to attend Living Streets Edinburgh’s annual public meeting on Thursday 11 June, bringing together campaigners, community leaders and local people passionate about making the city safer, healthier and more accessible for walking.
The event will take place from 6pm to 7.30pm at the Friends Meeting House, Victoria Terrace, Edinburgh (EH1 2JL), and is free and open to all.
Attendees will hear from two guest speakers who have made significant contributions to creating people-friendly places and improving public health:
Malcolm Fraser, architect, cyclist and pedestrian advocate, known for championing the renovation of existing buildings and promoting development that serves local communities.
Helga Rhein, former GP and trustee of B Healthy Together, who has campaigned extensively for healthier neighbourhoods and improved pavements in Broomhouse.
The meeting will also provide an opportunity for Edinburgh residents to share their experiences, identify walking-related problem hotspots across the city, and help shape Living Streets Edinburgh’s priorities for the coming year.
The organisation will celebrate a number of recent successes, including helping secure reduced waiting times at 24 standalone pedestrian crossings and supporting the pedestrianisation of the Lawnmarket in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
David Hunter, Convenor of Living Streets Edinburgh, said:“Walking is the most accessible form of transport and one of the simplest ways to improve our health and strengthen communities.
“We’re delighted to welcome Malcolm Fraser and Helga Rhein to this year’s meeting, and just as importantly, we want to hear directly from Edinburgh residents about their experiences and ideas.
“We’ve seen real progress over the past year, from shorter waiting times at pedestrian crossings to more space being given over to people rather than traffic. But there’s still much more to do.
“Whether you’re a regular campaigner, a local resident concerned about a particular street, or simply interested in making Edinburgh a better place to walk, I’d encourage you to come along and join the conversation.”
Living Streets Edinburgh is the local branch of the UK’s charity for everyday walking and works to improve conditions for pedestrians across the city.
Event details:
Living Streets Edinburgh Annual Public Meeting Thursday 11 June 6.00pm – 7.30pm Friends Meeting House Victoria Terrace Edinburgh EH1 2JL
Today, Thursday 4 June, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society is delighted to launch the 2026 Edinburgh Festival Fringe programme.
This year’s programme celebrates the diverse range of creativity at the Fringe and includes work from 71 countries – reinforcing the Fringe’s place within the world’s cultural landscape, with performers hailing from around the globe.
The programme features 3,649 shows across 258 venues, making up 53,884 performances, with themes tackling some of the most topical issues being discussed in the world today. Prominent themes include artificial intelligence, cults, the manosphere, identity crisis, social class, Y2K nostalgia, the state of the world and resilience and hope.
Launching the 2026 Edinburgh Festival Fringe programme, Tony Lankester, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society, said:‘Programme launch is an exciting moment for everyone involved in making the Festival Fringe happen. Thank you to the artists, venues, producers, technicians, promoters, support staff and audiences that bring their unique creative lens and exceptional energy to Edinburgh each August.
‘Within the number of productions registering this year, we’ve seen a notable increase in artist registrations from overseas. This tells us that, despite the economic and political headwinds the world is facing, the Fringe continues to be relevant and important to our artists, and taking part marks, for them, a significant moment and investment in their careers.
‘This year’s Fringe programme is packed with every kind of performance, so we’re asking audiences to mix it up and explore the unique, creative performances available at this Fringe.
“From theatre or circus, or the best of comedy, music, dance, children’s shows, magic or cabaret, there is something for everyone in Edinburgh this August.’
In Cabaret and Varietyat theSpaceUK,Confirmation Sponsor Variety Hour presents ‘the best damn talent show ever’ that is ‘sponsored by God.’ Head to artSpace@St Marks for a Piano Recital of Dvořák’s Suite, with ‘much variety and richness.’show
In Dance and Physical Theatre, Korean Tightrope Walking explores the ‘edge of balance and freedom’ through the traditional theatrical form of jultagi at Meeting Point at the Meadows.
There are a range of new shows at the Scottish Storytelling Centre. In Children’s Shows, Romeo and Juliet for Bairns portrays ‘an immersive, theatrical, comical version of the love story of Romeo and Juliet’ just for children. Exhibition: Craigmillar Tapestry showcases ‘a community initiative to create a series of tapestry panels representing the rich history of Craigmillar.’ The Scottish Storytelling Centre also presents Spoken Word performances such as Traditional Tales, which explores ‘folk tales, fairie tales, myths and legends, stories which have been handed down to inspire and entertain across generations.’
In theatre,the Scottish Storytelling Centre’s Irrational explores the balance between mathematics and storytelling to ‘reflect on the role of mathematics in Western culture.’ In Marjolein Robertson: Shetland Folklore at Traverse, Robertson takes audiences ‘across the sea to the UK’s most northerly isles for an hour of immersive tales.’ Meanwhile, over at theSpaceUK, Until Hope Fades Away ‘follows Ali, a young man anxiously waiting at an old harbour for the return of his father.’
At Pleasance, Copycat features Fringe First winner Joe Sellman-Leava as he explores whether ‘AI spells the end of humanity, or a dawn of a new utopia?’ At Hoots, Australian freestyle comedian Stian Macshane challenges a custom-built AI controlled entirely by the audience to a fully improvised rap challenge in RapGPT: Macshane.
Head to Assembly for An Echo in the Void, ‘a darkly funny, emotionally charged chamber thriller’ about four strangers who must choose between a painful reality and a perfect world designed by AI.
At Just the Tonic, Improbotics Presents: Artificial Reality, letting ‘audiences become producers of a reality show… Because of budget cuts, “celebrities” are recreated using questionable artificial reality methods (deep fakes, video generation and AR glasses to send lines from a chatbot to control the “celebrity”).’
‘Can you create a new and exciting innovative business and still be ethical?… The Provocateurs: Ethical Innovators? / Satellites Destroy Privacy at The Stand Comedy Club explores if new ideas and technologies – including AI – can still be ethical and inclusive’. Over at Venue 13, ‘step into an intimate, immersive campfire where mythical forces of nature meet in the shadow of a changing world. Once again guided by AI database, Symbiolene, as she conjures figures from her past: The Green Man, Brigid and the Cailleach’ in AI Campfire (return).
At Laughing Horse, The Buddha Wears Prada is ‘a dark stand-up comedy hour about Sofia May’s experience as a former member of a Buddhist cult’s inner circle.’ All Religions Explained – The Cabaret Musical is ‘a piano-pounding cabaret musical celebrating faith and the human comedy of belief’ at PBH’s Free Fringe.
Taking place at Gilded Balloon, Brit Barron: CHURCH explores stand-up, storytelling and gospel music about Barron’s experience as a former megachurch pastor. Meanwhile, Prophets from Fringe First-winning writer Jack MacGregor is at Assembly,travelling to Saint John to research the ‘dangerous theology of the cult’ that has taken over.
At Laughing Horse, Eat Pray Cult is ‘ a stand-up comedy about getting divorced and joining a cult’ in a ‘seasonal, off-grid, techo-futurist protopia and decentralized intentional community’.
Sex, Drugs and Conscious Souls at PBH’s Free Fringe explores the unlikely love story built upon polyamorous throuples between a pastor and a prostitute. It focuses upon ‘healing from religious trauma and mental illness while exploring society’s stigmas around sex, drugs and new age consciousness.’
Audiences can also join Jonas and Sylas, who tell their experiences of escaping a cult in Oh My Jehovah! at Hoots.
At Pleasance,MAN!FEST: The Drag Boyband Musical is the ‘riotous drag musical that exposes toxic masculinity and its effect on boybands and fangirls.’
At Monkey Barrel Comedy, Finlay Christie: Champagne Casanova provides an hour of stand-up discussing ‘the myths constructed by incels, billionaires and even human people, that mean we don’t have to admit we’re ordinary, rejected or wrong. There’s also a strong section on air fryers.’ Alice Fraser: Oh Man! is alsoat Monkey Barrel Comedy, with some ‘stuff to say’ about masculinity, featuring ‘a sentient Roomba and some Ancient Greek philosophy’.
In Aideen McQueen: Wo-Manosphere at Gilded Balloon,McQueen ‘finally understands dating, boundaries, attachment and the male loneliness epidemic’ in a stand-up show exploring masculinity and female delusion.
Explore a single mother’s ‘real-world encounter with the Manosphere that stokes her rage’ in SLAYERS by Corinne Salisbury at Assembly.Also, No Hard Felix follows Felix as his ‘chaotic quest to “fix” himself spirals into an accidental journey into vulnerability and the scared parts of himself he’s spent a lifetime avoiding’ at Just The Tonic.
Over at Greenside, Shinjuku follows a woman’s unfinished business in a ‘darkly funny exploration of women’s choices in a man’s world.’
In Extraordinary Alien at Le Monde, a Jewish actress and mum new to New York must prove she’s exceptional in a stand-up about ‘ambition, impostor syndrome and never quite fitting in.’ In Why English?, an Indian woman ‘questions her life in the post-colonial era’ through physical theatre at Assembly.
At Greenside, Chloe Campbell Bites Back explores Campbell’s move from County Down to London and tackles her Irish/British identity. Also at Greenside,Abby tells the story of her ‘immaculate-conception-adjacent origin story’ featuring ‘gay divorce, coming out as straight, OCD, Jewishness and Germans who fetishise it, and career heartache’ in Most of My Moms Are Gay.
Former astrophysics researcher Rao explores being ‘a brown Australian navigating family expectations, creative work and burnout in a confusing world, whilst clinging to a sense of joy’ in How Now Brown Rao at Laughing Horse.
Tap Out! (Or I’ll Hit You Again) at Gilded Balloon is a ‘dramedy story about violence, masculinity and morality; an examination of identity, purpose and male loneliness.’ Lance Mao: The Pig with the Dragon Tattoo at Hoots offers ‘a dark confessional hour about racism, mental health, fear, and embracing your crazy’ as ‘a perpetual foreigner’
‘Expect class clashes, romantic disasters and the familiar feeling of trying to do the right thing, and rarely succeeding’ in Gareth Mutch Means Well at The Stand Comedy Club. Follow a portrayal of ambition, social mobility and culture shock featuring ‘pink shell suits, Playboy garms, and Britpop’s parting cries’ in comedy Giro Baby at Greenside.
Drag performance I AM JOHNNY explores the ‘fragile power dynamics, performative masculinity and ownership of the female body’ at Summerhall.
Irene Cleans Up tells the story of an unlikely partnership between a London cleaner and a successful competitive sommelier, exploring reinvention, friendship and the ‘courage to redefine yourself’ at Paradise Green.
haim. teeth. CLUB. explores the story of a ‘working class Scottish young woman at the centre of her own narrative – as a living, breathing, contradictory person’ at Underbelly.
At Pleasance, Emmeline Downie: Gail ‘gives a voice to the voiceless: vivacious middle-aged women from Milton Keynes’.
A&E at theSpaceUK ‘invites the audience to sit in the A&E waiting room and participate in humanity’s favourite activity: voyeurism’ while meeting hospital regulars.
At Pleasance,Cecily Hitchcock: Family Recipe dives into ’00s Britain where ‘Blair and Brown played in her child mind like a Greek tragedy’.
They’re Just Small Town (Northern) Lads at Summerhall explores boyhood, masculinity and the moments young boys must decide what kind of men they will become in a Northern UK working-class town in 2000.
At Underbelly, Saving Britney, inspired by the #FreeBritney movement, returns to the Fringe to explore how the princess of pop, Britney Spears, influenced millennials’ lives and led to ‘an unbelievable moment of self-discovery.’ Over at Laughing Horse,00s Throwback Party explores Noughties’ iconography of ‘Fad diets. Flip phones. MySpace. MSN.’ through a multimedia performance.
YUCK Circus: Naughties is celebrating a decade not to be forgotten, featuring ‘high-flying acrobatics, comedy and absolute bangers’ at Assembly. Based on the film, Brassed Off shows ‘the value of solidarity and friendship and the power of music’ at Inverleith St Serf’s Church Centre.
We Were Young is at theSpaceUK, telling ‘a powerful and hilarious story about the realities of gang culture and young team mentality in Glasgow during the 90s’.
In Broken Planet Show at Just the Tonic, ‘comedy, circus and indie cosmic lunacy collide in an ever-changing nightly riot of world-class weirdos, hellbent on healing our planetary divide.’ Also at Just the Tonic, Meka Mo uses New York as a lens to comedically explore the multicultural world in ‘an age of political chaos and cultural contradiction’ in New York City Dreams.
Lorraine Hoodless: Mean at PBH’s Free Fringe tells Hoodless’ account of ‘burnout, billionaires, consumer guilt, the myth of meritocracy, and the slow collapse of society.’ The Last Funny Womanat PBH’s Free Fringe features Kate, who thinks ‘it is time to burn [the world] down.’
Political comedian Matt Forde ’embarks on finding joy amid global political turmoil, the rising tide of populism and his own ongoing health challenges’ in Matt Forde: Project Holy Moly at Pleasance.
At Paradise Green, The Pod is a comedy play about grief, the state of the world and the importance of human connection, as Kaia and Adam move to a ‘doomsday bunker that might jettison into space when the world ends in eight minutes and 19 seconds’.
Will Adamsdale tell his robo-bromance about finally embracing his old enemy technology in Will Adamsdale: AI, AI, Oh… (Or How I Wrote a Hit Sitcom with ChatGPT But We’re Not Talking Now) at Underbelly.
Part of the Made in Scotland showcase, FLOWERCORE by Siobhan Wilson at The Gilded Saloon is a celebration of ‘preservation, belonging and resilience through music and immersive imagery featuring flower videography and flower art by Scottish artists’.
In his first show in 25 years, Bruce Devlin: Mummy Loves M&S at TheStand Comedy Club explores ‘the four Ds: death, dyslexia, divorce and Dundee’, as well as the need for resilience and the power of laughter in the face of life’s challenges.
At the Ukrainian Community Centre, the Solo Way Ukrainian Choir ‘connects audiences to the passion, resilience and joy of Ukrainian music.’ At the Scottish Storytelling Centre, The Dark Pool explores ‘disability and resilience in the face of trauma and societal expectations’.
Jessies at theSpaceUK ‘dives into the highs and lows of queer life’ between 1980 and 1995 for ‘three unforgettable drag queens.’ Also at theSpaceUK, A Forgotten Woman: Mrs Oscar Wilde explores Constance Lloyd’s life ‘told through letter excerpts written in her own hand’ which reveal her ‘wit to rival Oscar [Wilde’s]’.
At The Speakeasy at The Royal Scots Club, Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads, a ‘multi-generational company of Edinburgh-based women, perform four of Alan Bennett’s iconic Talking Heads monologues’ exploring loneliness, desperation and resilience through humour.
Gilded Balloon Teviotreopens for the Fringe after being closed for renovations since September 2023, featuring Brit Barron: CHURCH, Fab Goualin: Mixed Messages, Aideen McQueen: Wo-Manosphere and many more.
Sauna Theatre @ Summerhall is a working sauna and will feature shows such as Morning Sauna Rave, Mysteries of the Picts and Bubble Schmeisis (Remixed). Sauna Theatre will be a hub for relaxing and recharging, as well as experiencing choreography and storytelling through traditional sauna rituals.
Brown’s of Leith is hosting a ‘site-specific adaption of Andrew O’Hagan’s best-selling novel’ Mayflies, part of the Made in Scotland showcase, within Leith’s unique Victorian engineering works.
Pianodrome’s new, second location at St Oswaldsshares ‘the world’s first amphitheatre made entirely from disused pianos’ which will feature free shows, evening events and workshops such as Golden Beryl: Special Oblivion, Piano Dismantling Action and Vroni’s Streetpiano Party.
The Fringe Society is grateful to the many partners, supporters, funders and sponsors this year. They would like to thank Cheez-It, The Magnum Ice Cream Company, Edinburgh Gin, Baillie Gifford, Cirrus Logic, Apex Bars & Events, Binks Trust, Bloomberg Philanthropies, PPL, EventScotland, VisitScotland, and Young Start – The National Lottery Community Fund.
The Fringe Society would also like to thank the UK Government, Foyle Foundation, SP Energy Networks, and the Changing Places Toilets Scotland Fund for their support of Fringe Central. The Scottish Government and City of Edinburgh Council for strategic funding support, the Scottish Government’s Festivals EXPO Fund support for the Made in Scotland programme; and Screen Scotland for supporting Screen Fringe.
The Fringe Society works with accommodation partners who provide much needed affordable accommodation to artists – they would like to thank Queen Margaret University, the University of Edinburgh and Theatre Digs Booker.
Health in Mind are also returning in 2026 to support the delivery of mental health and wellbeing services within Fringe Central.
– Attraction cuts summer ticket prices by 12.5% to support families, with discounted tickets available to book now –
Popular Royal Mile attraction, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, is helping families make the most of the summer holidays by reducing ticket prices throughout the season as part of the Government’s Great British Summer Savings Initiative.
Discounted tickets are available to book now via Camera Obscura’s website for visits between 25 June to 1 September 2026, giving visitors the opportunity to secure savings ahead of the busy holiday period.
As one of the first attractions to make discounted tickets available through the scheme, Camera Obscura is supporting efforts to help more people enjoy memorable days out and discover the best of the UK’s visitor attractions this summer.
In addition to the initiative, the attraction will also honour the discounted rates for visitors who have already booked to visit during the eligible period, with refunds on the difference due to begin processing.
A family of four visiting during the summer holidays could save more than £10 compared to standard admission prices.
Reduced ticket prices include:
Adult tickets reduced from £24.95 to £21.85
Senior/Student tickets reduced from £21.95 to £19.20
Child tickets reduced from £17.95 to £15.70
Andrew Johnson, General Manager of Camera Obscura said; “The summer holidays are a time for making memories together, and we’re pleased to support an initiative that encourages people to get out, explore and experience some of the fantastic attractions available across the UK.
“We know families are continuing to think carefully about the cost of days out, particularly during the long summer holidays, which is why we look forward to welcoming visitors from near and far to enjoy our interactive exhibits, rooftop views and unique experiences throughout the season.”
The announcement follows a strong start to the summer for Camera Obscura, which was recently named one of the UK’s top three attractions by Which? and awarded Recommended Provider status.
The consumer champion praised the attraction’s interactive experiences, hands-on exhibits and family-friendly appeal, reinforcing its reputation as one of Scotland’s leading visitor attractions.
The award-winning Amber Restaurant at The Scotch Whisky Experience has announced a series of food and drink offerings to celebrate its 25th anniversary. To mark the milestone, the restaurant has launched two retrospective menus featuring some of Amber’s most memorable dishes from the past 25 years, alongside a specially created anniversary cocktail, the Amber ’25.
Since opening in 2001, Amber has helped champion whisky pairing and whisky-led cooking within Scotland’s dining scene, pairing dishes with whiskies from all five whisky producing regions.
At the heart of the celebrations is the limited-edition ‘Taste of Scotland’ menu, running across two periods, 20th – 24th May and 23rd – 30th November. Curated by Executive Chef David Neave, who has led the kitchen since the restaurant opened, the menu revisits a selection of standout dishes from the past 25 years. Each course reflects the evolution of Scottish seasonal ingredients and Amber’s distinctive approach to whisky-infused cuisine.
David Neave, Executive Chef at Amber Restaurant, said: “Reaching 25 years at Amber Restaurant is a hugely proud moment for all of us. This anniversary menu, created by our team of chefs, is an opportunity to celebrate the very best of Scottish produce and revisit the dishes that have helped define who we are, as a restaurant, over the years.
“Whisky has always been central to our cooking, not only as a pairing, but also as an ingredient that can bring real depth and character to a dish. Looking back at these menus has been incredibly special and reflects the journey Amber has been on over the past 25 years.”
Amber was also the restaurant that introduced the concept of Scottish tapas, creating small plates designed to give visitors from around the world the opportunity to experience a broad taste of Scotland in one sitting. A quarter of a century on, the concept remains at the heart of the restaurant, with a celebratory Scottish tapas offering running throughout the anniversary year and featuring guest favourites from across the decades.
Wendy Neave, Head of Events and daughter of Executive Chef David Neave, said: “Amber Restaurant is extremely special to our family. My father, David, has led the kitchen with real passion since the beginning, and my brother Michael has also played an important role in the kitchen over the years, following in his father’s footsteps, so it’s something we’ve all been closely connected to.
“Our team have always been passionate about showcasing the very best of Scotland to our guests, and that’s what led to the creation of our Scottish tapas concept. We wanted visitors to have the opportunity to experience a wide variety of Scottish dishes and flavours in a small plate format.”
To find out more about The Scotch Whisky Experience’s Amber Restaurant please visit Amber Restaurant.
CODE Concepts, the Edinburgh-based boutique hotel and capsule hostel operator, has officially opened The Pend, a new social, events, community and co-working space located on historic Old Fishmarket Close, in the heart of the Old Town.
The launch marks a major step in CODE’s experience-led approach to hospitality, transforming an underused site into a flexible, design-led environment that brings together guests, local creatives and the wider Edinburgh community.
The Pend is the newest addition to the CODE Concepts portfolio, joining CODE The Court, CODE The Loft, and John’s Coffee House and The Lost Close. The portfolio will expand further with The Bindery, a design-led boutique hotel set to open in Edinburgh’s New Town in early 2027.
Andy Landsburgh, CEO of CODE Concepts, said: “The Pend is a project built through listening, partnership and shared ideas. It brings together everything we’ve been working towards at CODE – creating spaces that go beyond accommodation to genuinely connect people.
“From the beginning, this has been shaped by our guests and by Edinburgh’s creative community, and seeing those groups come together on opening night was incredibly special.”
At its heart, The Pend is designed as a social hub, a place to gather, work and create. While enhancing the stay of CODE guests with events just steps from their rooms, it is also open as a shared platform for Edinburgh’s creative and business communities.
The concept was informed by both guest research and direct engagement with the local community. This has already led to a planned diverse programme of activity, including watercolour workshops, floristry classes, work-in-progress theatre, talks and creative meet-ups. The Pend will also serve as a venue during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, further embedding it within the city’s cultural calendar.
In Scotland, a pend refers to a passageway leading somewhere beyond; true to its name, the space acts as both a literal and symbolic gateway, connecting CODE’s international guest community with Edinburgh’s local creative scene. The exposed stonework of the original pend that inspired the name remains a defining feature of the space.
Respecting and reinterpreting the history of each location is a key part of CODE Concepts’ approach. Previous projects include John’s Coffee House, which opened in 2025 and was inspired by 18th-century coffee houses central to Edinburgh’s Enlightenment period; and the discovery of a rare 19th-century Crossley engine during renovations at CODE The Court, which was carefully preserved and relocated to The Lost Close.
Designed in collaboration with SPLINTR, the space has been configured to balance social interaction, creative activity and focused work. A multipurpose cinema room allows for screenings, performances and workshops. A relaxed coworking and social area provides a comfortable setting for both productivity and conversation, complemented by simple, accessible amenities. This includes a bookable studio equipped with a 55-inch screen, suitable for meetings and private events.
The space launched with an opening event attended by local creatives, partners and members of Edinburgh’s hospitality and arts communities. Guests were welcomed with live music by Lynds, drinks from Bellfield Brewery and plants from Seb’s Urban Jungle, while drag performer Mystika Glamoor hosted tarot readings, reflecting the playful and collaborative spirit of the space. The evening concluded with a dram in The Lost Close, CODE Concepts’ historic underground whisky experience.
With its official opening now complete, further announcements on programming and partnerships will follow in the coming months as The Pend continues to establish itself as one of Edinburgh’s most dynamic new social and creative spaces.
A CELEBRATION OF THE PAST, THE PRESENT & THE FUTURE OF TRAD IN EDINBURGH
Multi-award winning Scottish folk band Session A9 closed this year’s Edinburgh Tradfest with a standout live performance, and multiple encores at the Traverse Theatre on Monday 11 May.
The festival ran from (1-11 May) and included 11 days of live music, talks, workshops, folk film screenings and storytelling, thanks to continued support from Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
This year’s programme of over 60 events, was a tremendous success, with organisers enjoying:
● A 9% increase in ticket sales to music events at the Traverse Theatre.
● Multiple sell-outs including award-winning Connemara singing sensations Séamus and Caoimhe, Kim Carnie, Eilidh Shaw and Ian Carr, The Onlies, Deiseil: Dancing in Time, Nexus Project, Dick Gaughan in conversation and Session A9.
● Standing ovations for multiple performers including: Rajasthani folk trio SAZ; and Ukrainian folk musician and live-looping artist GANNA.
● Free pop up performances from Astro Bloc at Edinburgh Airport, SAZ at the Aroma Restaurant and Bar in Broxburn, and Dauntless at Nobles Bar in Leith.
● An increase in audiences aged under 26 thanks to the festival’s £9 ticket offer for younger audiences. Under 35s up from 21% to 25%
● A more international audience than ever before with 21% of the audience from outside the UK, whilst still being popular in the local area – 73% from Scotland (55% from Edinburgh).
Copyright_Douglas RobertsonEdinburgh
This year’s music commission A’Chiad Litir, (The First Letter) also received 5-star reviews.The piece, inspired by the life of sixteenth-century lesbian love poet Marie Maitland, touched on questions of language, identity and the notion of queerness and was created and performed by renowned singer songwriter and composer Josie Duncan.
Joining Josie was a stellar line-up of musicians including; Charlotte Printer (bass and vocals), Chloë Bryce (fiddle), Eilidh Rogers (percussion), Jenny Clifford (guitar) and Ashley Douglas (spoken word) who read one of Marie Maitland’s poems addressed to another woman she loved.
Other stand-out highlights from this year included trad powerhouse RURA and newcomers Astro Bloc who played to a lively crowd on opening night at Potterrow; The Complete Recordings of Hezekiah Procter – a live vaudeville act, featuring old-time music performed on fiddles, banjos and sousaphone; Isla Ratcliff’s Scottish trad reinterpretation of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons; and award-winning folk singer Fiona Hunter taming toddlers with her interactive music session for under 5s and above.
Further afield, the hugely successful Folk Film Gathering supported by Screen Scotland, drew in the crowds with its popular programme of Scottish and international films, many accompanied by live scores or introductory talks.
In particular, the launch of Faodail | Found Outer Hebrides Film Archive website which featured live music from acclaimed accordionist and composer Pàdruig Morrison with fiddler and Gaelic singer Claire Frances MacNeil; the world premiere of a new documentary exploring the life and work of tradition bearer Jimmy Hutchison; Celtic Utopia which celebrates Ireland’s current folk renaissance and features many bold, funny, and politically outspoken young Irish folk musicians including Lankum and The Mary Wallopers; the UK premiere of Italian documentary Canone Effimero which showcases the raw energy and some of the vibrant folk traditions of Italy; and a curated selection of early, rarely-seen silent films by Scottish legendary film maker Bill Douglas.
Over at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, crowds gathered on Living Heritage Discovery Day to hear Ireland’s folklore aficionado Michael Fortune talk about Intangible Cultural Heritage and tradition-bearing.
Plus, throughout the festival, the Centre’s popular ‘What is…’ series of talks explaining what makes traditional dance, music,crafts, Gaelic, and Scots, truly traditional, drew audiences from all over, keen to hear from the experts about what makes each artform unique.
Lauren Paterson, Head of Programming at the Scottish Storytelling Centre said: “During the year of the Scottish Storytelling Centre’s 20th birthday, it’s been a joy to welcome audiences, performers and tradition-bearers alike to celebrate the richness, liveliness and variety of Scotland’s living heritage as part of Edinburgh Tradfest.
“From hands-on Come and Try sessions and workshops to explorations of traditional culture and identity through conversation and performance, it’s been inspiring to see so many people engaging with traditions and making connections with their own experience.”
Douglas Robertson and Jane-Ann Purdy, co-producers of Edinburgh Tradfest said: “We are delighted and encouraged with how Edinburgh Tradfest went this year. To have audiences up by 9% is a real achievement especially in tough economic times.
“We are also extremely happy to see the numbers rising amongst the younger age groups. One of the many highlights for 2026 was the move into other areas of the city with some entertaining (and free) pop up performances.
“We hit Broxburn, Turnhouse and Leith this year, and are already planning to pop up in some other unusual locations for 2027.”
Edinburgh Tradfest will return from 30 April to 10 May 2027.
MS Society representatives will march in Pride Edinburgh for the first time this year – and they’re inviting anyone who’s affected by multiple sclerosis (MS) to join them.
Volunteers, supporters, people living with MS and their family members and friends, will join charity staff in the capital city on Saturday 20 June.
They’ll march to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ MS community, but also to raise awareness of the inequalities and challenges members of the community still face.
The march forms at Horse Wynd, close to the Scottish Parliament, at 12.15pm before departing at 1pm. The route passes through the city centre, finishing at The University of Edinburgh. The MS Society is also organising an accessible “cheer spot”, which members of the MS community can watch the parade from if they aren’t marching.
More than 17,000 people in Scotland live with MS. It’s a condition that affects nerves in the brain and spinal cord, impacting how people move, think, and feel. The MS Society is there for everyone affected by MS, offering support, funding research, and campaigning for improved rights.
Gilded Balloon today announces the launch of its Show Support Fund, a new initiative designed to help artists overcome the growing financial barriers of bringing work to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Delivered by Gilded Balloon Futures Ltd, the organisation’s registered charity, the fund marks a significant step in expanding Gilded Balloon’s long-standing commitment to artist development. Gilded Balloon Futures was originally established following the Cowgate fire and relaunched at the end of 2025 as part of Gilded Balloon’s 40th anniversary, with a renewed focus on supporting artists and sustaining the future of the Fringe.
At its core, the Show Support Fund will raise commercial, public and charitable donations to directly support artists in Gilded Balloon’s annual Fringe programme. With the cost of participating in the Fringe continuing to rise, the fund aims to ensure that more artists, particularly those with distinct voices and limited financial means, can bring their work to Edinburgh.
The fund is designed to be flexible and collaborative, allowing donors to support the kinds of artists and projects they are most passionate about, while Gilded Balloon identifies productions that would most benefit from additional backing. Funding may contribute to a wide range of artist’s needs, including marketing, rehearsal space, creative support, travel, accommodation and wellbeing.
Alongside the Show Support Fund, Gilded Balloon Futures will also support the So You Think You’re Funny? Artist Development Programme, helping to cover the costs of the competition and providing vital opportunities for emerging comedians. This includes financial assistance for travel and accommodation for selected performers, removing one of the biggest barriers to accessing the fringe.
In its inaugural year, the Show Support Fund has been kickstarted by a generous contribution from globally acclaimed comedian, writer and composer Tim Minchin alongside his wife Sarah Minchin, their donation will support five shows selected by Gilded Balloon Artistic Directors Karen Koren and Katy Koren, focusing on solo performers with bold voices and sharing personal stories across comedy and theatre.
Tim Minchin who first found major success at Gilded Balloon at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2005 has particular interest in supporting artists who have struggled with mental health issues who may require additional support to make the Fringe achievable with their work.
In 2026, a total of £10,000 has been raised for the Show Support Fund which will be split between five supported artists as follows:
These productions represent a mix of emerging and established voices, each facing unique challenges in bringing their work to the Fringe, from international travel costs to personal circumstances and the realities of early-career development.
Support from the fund will directly impact these artists’ ability to present their work, whether through financial relief, creative resources, or practical adjustments that make participation possible.
Karen and Katy Koren, Artistic Directors of the Gilded Balloonsaid: ““For over 40 years, Gilded Balloon has been a home for artists at every stage of their careers, from first-timers to global stars. But the reality now is that the financial barriers to getting to the Fringe are higher than ever.
“We are delighted to finally launch this fund which has been a long time coming and is about protecting what makes the Fringe special, taking risks on new voices and giving artists the chance to be seen – something we’ve always prioritised at Gilded Balloon. We want to work with supporters who believe in that mission and help us keep those doors open.
“Every year we meet extraordinary artists with urgent, exciting work who simply can’t afford to bring their work to the Fringe. The Show Support Fund and the So You Think You’re Funny? Artist Development programme – both delivered by Gilded Balloon Futures – allow us to raise funds for where it matters most.
“Whether that’s helping artists to cover travel or accommodation costs, giving artists proper time and space to develop their work, or supporting their wellbeing during what can be an incredibly intense month.
“It’s practical, targeted support that can genuinely change the trajectory of someone’s career and we are eternally grateful to our pal, Tim Minchin, for being the first to support the Show Support Fund.”
Tim Minchinsaid: “Late one night in March, 21 years ago, a furiously passionate woman with a strong Scottish accent called me up and demanded I go to the Gilded Balloon.
“I didn’t know what the fuck a Gilded Balloon was, and I was deeply cautious, because I’d spent ten years grafting away, and didn’t really believe in big breaks. But a big break is exactly what that phone call was.
“Karen Koren – and now her daughter Katy – have remained loyal friends and passionate supporters for two decades, and it’s a huge privilege to be able to support them a bit as they head into their 41st Fringe.”
A CALL TO THE INDUSTRY
Gilded Balloon hopes that the Minchins’ contribution will inspire others, particularly alumni, industry partners and Fringe supporters, to invest in the next generation of performers.
As one of the Fringe’s longest-running venues, Gilded Balloon has played a pivotal role in launching the careers of countless comedians and theatre-makers. The Show Support Fund represents a new chapter in that legacy, ensuring that talent, not financial means, remains the driving force behind who gets to take part.
By contributing to the fund, supporters will play a direct role in shaping the future of the Fringe, enabling more artists to take risks, share their stories, and reach new audiences on one of the world’s most important cultural stages.
POLICE are appealing for information following a fire in Edinburgh. Around 7.05pm on Monday, 25 May, 2026, we received a report of a fire at Arthur’s Seat.
Emergency services attended, and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service remained at the scene to dampen down hot spots.
No injuries were reported.
Enquiries are ongoing alongside partners to establish the cause of the fire.
Local Area Commander Alison MacDonald said: “We know that the area around Arthur’s seat was busy last night due to the good weather and would ask that anyone with any information surrounding the cause of the fire come forwand ard and speak with officers.
“Anyone with information should call Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 2975 of 25 May, 2026.
“As the good weather continues, we will continue to work with our partner agencies and would encourage members of the public to stay safe and behave responsibly.”
Area Commander David Dourley is the Local Senior Officer for City of Edinburgh. He said: “At 6.50pm on Monday, 25 May, we were alerted to reports of a large grass fire on Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh.
“We know many people will be wanting to enjoy the good weather, but we ask they do so responsibly. Wildfires have the potential to destroy property, landscapes and wildlife, which is why it is so important that members of the public use extreme caution under these conditions.
“Please avoid lighting outdoor fires and be mindful that one spark can spread rapidly, causing a large amount of damage.
“If you spot an outdoor fire, please report it immediately by calling 999, providing your location, and any other relevant information so we can respond quickly.”
Jamie Hamilton, Senior Ranger at Holyrood Park said; “We’d like to extend our sincere thanks to the emergency services for their quick response to this incident and would encourage anyone with any further information to come forward.
“We know that people are keen to enjoy the good weather but would ask them to remain vigilant and not to use any form of naked flame within the parameters of the park, dispose of rubbish properly, and to report anything of concern immediately.
“The High Road within the park has been closed to vehicles, and we would ask visitors to continue to follow guidance from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and avoid the affected areas.”
