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 A neo-pagan fertility ceremony |
Calton Hill Edinburgh United Kingdom +44 131 228 5353 |
The Beltane Fire Festival, held on Calton Hill on 30th April, is a neo-pagan fertility ceremony. Revellers in costume and bodypaint dance around the hill to the sound of various drummers, musicians. Bonfires rage and spectacular props abound to make the whole thing a rare and often enthralling sight. It all begins at about 9:30p when the May Queen emerges from the Acropolis with her White Women. Together with the Green Man, they process around the hill visiting sites dedicated to each of the four elements. After the Dionysian Red Men have been seen off, the Green Man is subjected to a symbolic death and resurrection before marrying the May Queen. Fires are lit and the May Queen returns to her bower as the festival continues on through the night. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ali Kurtze |
 Photo: Lucas Koscielniak |
 Photo: Stuart McGlashan |
 All about the arts |
4 Jackson's Entry British Council Scotland Arts Department Edinburgh EH8 8PJ United Kingdom +44 (0)131 558 8851 http://www.edinburghartfestiva... |
Started in 2004, the Edinburgh Art Festival is organised as the collective effort of The British Council, The Scottish Arts Council and other funding organisations. This is of course to facilitate various art galleries, artistes and art communities to showcase their works during the festival season. It is a commitment to celebrate and present high quality art in Edinburgh. It brings together anyone and everyone connected to the visual arts spectrum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ian Chen |
 Photo: Ian Douglass |
 Edinburgh Festival Fringe |
180 High Street (Organisor) City of Edinburgh EH1 1QS United Kingdom +44 (0)131 226 0026 (Organisor) http://www.edfringe.com/ |
The Fringe is a welcoming forum for both the established star and the unknown genius of tomorrow. For three weeks in August each year, the city is alive with a frenzy of creativity, hosting more than 2,000 shows held at various venues throughout the city. More than 30% of the program is smade up by theater. The rest is rounded out with comedy, music, dance, children's shows and exhibitions. Expect anything from the profoundly serious to the deliriously silly. The program is launched in June, with tickets available through August; book early if you want to get to your first-choice program. Ticket prices vary according to venue and performance. If you're tight on cash or someone who's always looking for a bargain, keep in mind that over 300 of the shows are free to the public. Call or check the website for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: FiPZiE.CoM |
 Photo: Duce McCune |
 Photo: FiPZiE.CoM |
 Photo: Marjolijn Kamphuis |
 Photo: Joy Columbretis |
 Photo: Laurenz Bobke  |
 Photo: Dave Flynn |
 Photo: Dave Flynn |
 Photo: Ian Potter |
 Photo: Richard Hoskins |
 Photo: Bev Turner |
 Photo: Chen Yu |
 Photo: ShakespeareCast.com |
 Photo: Rodrigo Gomez-Tagle |
 Photo: Mulloy Morrow |
 Photo: William T Shiers |
 Photo: AVVoCADo |
 Photo: susie bergen |
 Photo: Thomas Suski |
 Photo: Emmett Dzieza |
 Photo: John. A. Long |
 Photo: Tom Rolfe |
 Photo: Shomair |
 Photo: Dominic Travers |
 Photo: Catherine Sparks |
 Photo: Zoe Goodacre |
 Photo: Charlie Wood |
 Photo: alclouston2003 |
 Photo: Tony Lukeman |
 Photo: Freddie Botham |
 Photo: X3NiTH |
 Photo: David Gilmour |
 Photo: Andrew Tobin |
 Photo: Jan Grieve |
 Photo: Jason Prince |
 Photo: David Craig |
 Photo: Craig Muir |
 Photo: Sarah Gale |
 Photo: Dan Weill |
 Photo: Marco Duizer |
 Photo: Mark Thornton |
 Photo: Sabrina |
 Photo: Jason Seymour |
 Photo: Siobhan Mitchell |
 Photo: arekarek74 |
 Photo: Mike Spence |
 Photo: James Mackenzie |
 Photo: Anne Gallacher |
 Photo: diskojez |
 Photo: doug_alba |
 Photo: Akil Suvarna |
 Photo: Roxanne Paris |
 Photo: ici-c-la-capitale-du |
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A celebration of the written word |
Charlotte Square Edinburgh EH2 United Kingdom +44 (0)131 228 5444 |
The Book Festival is relatively new in comparison with the other five big festivals which together make up the Edinburgh Festival. It takes place in the last two weeks of August and features a packed programme of readings from well-known authors, lectures, children's workshops and various book-themed events. Past participants have included such luminaries as Irvine Welsh and Ruth Rendell, who along with thousands of visitors, all converge on the temporary tented village erected in the wonderful Charlotte Square Gardens. One of the great things about this particular festival is the predominance of authors over publishing-trade magnates. Lesser known writers have their place alongside household names, and they're all free to mingle with the public. The Festival spirit is encompassed in the Chinese proverb that reads: "A book is like a garden in the pocket". Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David Petherick |
 Photo: John Keogh, jv21.com |
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The oldest of six arts festivals |
Various venues Edinburgh United Kingdom +44 131 473 2001 http://www.edinburgh-festivals... |
The Edinburgh International Festival is one of six arts festivals which, together, make up The Edinburgh Festival. The focus of the event is to "provide the world with a centre where, year after year, all that is best in music, drama and the visual arts can be seen and heard in ideal surroundings". Edinburgh is indeed ideal: the beauty of the surrounding landscape provides the perfect backdrop for the music and drama of the International Festival. Opera, ballet, symphony concerts, and performances all take place in the larger venues around the city. The programme is available in March, and tickets are EUR5. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Gardner |
 Photo: Lauren |
 Photo: Sivakumar Rajamanickam |
 Photo: E.Robson |
 Photo: Peter Doe |
 Photo: www.theedinburghblog |
 Photo: E.Robson |
 Photo: Greg Beal |
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Celebrity studded premieres |
88 Lothian Road Edinburgh EH3 9BZ United Kingdom +44 131 229 2550 (Information) / +44 131 623 8030 (Tickets) http://www.edfilmfest.org.uk/ |
One of the several events that make up The Edinburgh Festival, this film fest aims to provide a forum for new British and continental talent. There is always a wide range of new and classic films to view, along with events and lectures featuring some of the big names in cinema. There are also 'surprise' films and some premieres (usually accessible to the public), along with appearances by assorted celebrities (past visitors have included Tim Roth and Ewan McGregor). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Valentino Paparazzi |
 Photo: Motomichi Nakamura |
 Edinburgh International Science Festival |
4 Gayfield Place Lane Edinburgh EH1 3NZ United Kingdom +44 131 558 7666 http://www.sciencefestival.co.uk/ |
This fascinating and stimulating Festival takes place in the Spring, around Easter time and lasts for two weeks. It aims to make science and technology accessible to all, through a full programme of shows, workshops, walks, tours and events, plus a special timetable for children and schools. In previous years visitors have been able to chat with Arthur C Clarke, unearth giant dinosaurs and walk on red hot coals. It all adds up to an educational, intriguing and fun day out. See their website for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Gray |
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Ten Days of Music |
29 St. Stephen Street Edinburgh EH3 5AN United Kingdom +44 131 467 5200 http://www.edinburghjazzfestiv... |
Every summer the International Jazz Festival comes to town presenting the best of jazz and blues. Various venues are used around Edinburgh including bars, concert halls, clubs, streets, parks and churches. The sound of this great music resonates through the city for ten days, covering the full spectrum of jazz. Musicians of world renown and cult status play in intimate and attractive places. The longest running Jazz Festival in the UK also runs various workshops and masterclasses. See website for schedule and complete yearly particulars. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: saxyscorpio |
 Photo: Ewan McIntosh |
 Photo: Ewan McIntosh |
 Photo: g0rd0n |
 Photo: Liz Curtis |
 Photo: Duncan Beattie |
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Celebrating diversity |
42 Elm Row Elm Row Edinburgh EH7 4AH United Kingdom +44 131 557 1400 http://www.edinburgh-mela.co.uk/ |
This is a gathering of the ethnic communities in Edinburgh. The city's diversity is celebrated each year with music, dance, theatre and visual arts events – performed by key figures and international stars. Held in Pilrig Park, this year's highlights include a fashion show, and performances by Abrar-ul-Haq Rafi, the Peer Theatre Workshop and the Sony Entertainment Television Asia Roadshow. The essence of it is that absolutely everybody is welcome. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ben Hull |
 Photo: Steve |
 Photo: Michelle R. Kersh |
 Photo: Keith Dumble |
 Photo: Fereuse MacDonald |
 Photo: Andrew de Quincey |
 Photo: Dave Flynn |
 Photo: Dave Flynn |
 Photo: David Barlow |
 Photo: Reg Belcher |
 Arts & More |
15 Brunswick Street Edinburgh EH7 5JB United Kingdom +44 (0)131 556 8869 http://www.edinburghpeoplesfes... |
Taking a cue from the Edinburgh People's Festival 1951-54, the Communication Workers Union conducts this festival, which is a celebration of various art forms ranging from music and films to the performing arts. Clearly the motto of the organizers seems to be people-inspired since the events and performances are held in places where the masses can enjoy them as much as the so-called upper elite. It is a celebration of art "for the people, by the people". Review © 2007, Wcities |
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All things French |
88 Lothian Road Edinburgh Filmhouse Edinburgh EH3 9BZ United Kingdom +44 131 228 2688 (Box Office) / +44 131 225 6191 (Festival Office) http://www.frenchfilmfestival.... |
In an effort to get many excellent, French made films seen in the UK that would otherwise be missed due to a lack of distribution, the French Film Festival comes to the rescue every year. You can view cinematic pieces from well-known French directors as well as newcomers—and in the process, learn a bit about all things French. Venues include theatres in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, London and Dundee. Tickets start at EUR3.50 for a matinee and a FFF KeyCard Festival Pass with access to all 28 films can cost EUR50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Open-air ice rink in city centre |
Princes Street Princes Street Gardens Edinburgh EH2 3AA United Kingdom +44 131 473 3800 |
Princes Street Gardens, right in the centre of Edinburgh, is the location of the UK's largest open-air ice rink for a few weeks each winter. Situated in the shadow of the stunning Edinburgh Castle, the huge rink plays host to professional ice skaters, curling tournaments and ice hockey competitions as well as general public skating. The rink is decorated with lights and alongside are stalls selling food and drink to complement the winter atmosphere. Call for schedule and activity details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Leigh |
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Prestigious classic concert series |
Lothian Road Usher Hall Edinburgh EH1 2EA United Kingdom +44 131 228 1155 (ticket office) http://www.usherhall.co.uk |
At one time Edinburgh lacked the annual program of visiting musicians often offered by other cities around the world. That's now changed since the 2002-2003 international series of classical music concerts has made its way to Usher Hall. November 7th sees the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment play under the direction of Viktoira Mullova, lead by Catherine Mackintosh. Frans Bruggen and Sir Simon Rattle are the Principal Guest Conductors for this performance. Call ahead to Usher Hall's ticket office for prices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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What's on Telly? |
Morrison Street Edinburgh International Conference Centre Edinburgh EH3 8EE United Kingdom +44 20 7278 9515 (Organisers) http://www.mgeitf.co.uk/ |
Initiated in 1976, this annual event is held during the month of August at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre and aims at bringing together all those who are related to the television industry. The highlight of this festival involves discussions on key issues of the present scenario in the form of lectures and interviews, learning opportunities from masterclasses and forming business contacts. But it is not all work and no play. The events are fun and engaging and a great experience for all participants. See website for yearly particulars. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Traditional Sprint for the Cash |
Linkfield Road Musselburgh Racecourse Edinburgh EH21 United Kingdom +44 131 665 2859 http://www.sportingworld.co.uk... |
Professional and amateur athletes alike turn out for Edinburgh's famed New Years Sprint every December, held right before Hogmanay. The tradition has been going strong since the late 1800s, and today, competitors race over 110 yards of turf in the hopes that they will win the cash grand prize. No matter what your ability, this event has a handicap starting system that will ensure any runner a chance of claiming the big first prize. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The pre-party fiesta |
George Street Edinburgh EH1 1BW United Kingdom +44 131 473 1999 http://www.hogmanay.net |
A warm up to Edinburgh's famed Hogmany New Year's Eve party, this free fiesta features world music, dancing and entertainment for the whole family. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: dayna mason |
 Photo: Zach Everson |
 Photo: Zach Everson |
 Photo: Katherine Belyea |
 Photo: Kevin Tierney |
 Photo: coryn3 |
 Photo: Mossfield |
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Scotish Halloween Tradition |
4B Gayfield Place (Royal Mile) St. Giles Cathedral Edinburgh EH1 1BW United Kingdom +44 (0)131 228 5353 http://www.beltane.org/celticy... |
Samhuinn means summer's end, and this free festival does that by mixing a medieval procession, theatre, folk dance, drama and a pyrotechnic spectacle into Britain's biggest Halloween party. Commencing in the Upper Bow by the Hub, a procession makes it way to Parliament Square with music and revelry where dancers, jesters and acrobats perform on the main stage. Then, with a sudden boom, fireworks sparkle over the crowd as the King of Summer battles the King of Winter. The partying continues at the Carlton Studios bar with admission funds going to charity. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stuart Barrett |
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For all fiddle fans |
36 Dalmeny Street Edinburgh EH6 8RG United Kingdom +44 131 346 0977 / +44 870 599 2244 http://www.scotsfiddlefestival... |
Featuring a star-studded line up of musicians and experts, Fiddle offers an action packed weekend. Concerts, workshops, master classes, recitals and exhibitors stalls will be on hand to meet all of your musical needs. Musicians include: Oleg Ponomarev, Mairi Campbell, Wendy Weatherby and Bruce MacGregor to name a few. Ticket prices start at EUR7 and vary depending on concert or event. Please refer to the Web site for a detailed listing of the festival offerings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
