The History of Edinburgh Fringe Festival

Visiting Edinburgh takes you on a journey into a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Nestled among rugged hills and framed by the stunning Edinburgh Castle, this Scottish capital seamlessly blends the old with the new. Visitors can wander through the medieval alleys of the Old Town, marvel at the Georgian elegance of the New Town, and indulge in the vibrant arts. Whether arriving by train, plane, or as part of a scenic British Isles cruise, Edinburgh offers an enchanting experience with its historic landmarks, bustling festivals, and warm Scottish hospitality.

Scotland's vibrant capital becomes a global cultural hub every August with the arrival of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. This world-renowned arts festival, often simply referred to as the "Fringe," is a magnet for performers, artists, and spectators from across the globe. For those joining the festivities this year, perhaps on a cruise with us, it’s the perfect opportunity to delve into the rich history of this extraordinary event. In this guide, we have looked at the history of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

The beginning of the Fringe Festival

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival has humble beginnings dating back to 1947. It all started as an alternative to the Edinburgh International Festival, which was established to celebrate European cultural life in the aftermath of World War II. That same year, eight theatre companies, uninvited to the official festival, decided to turn up and perform on the fringes of the main event. This spontaneous act of artistic defiance laid the foundation for what would become the largest arts festival in the world and continues to be known as the Fringe Festival.

Growth and Evolution

From those eight original groups, the Fringe grew exponentially, and by the 1950s, it was clear that the Edinburgh Fringe had become an integral part of the city's cultural landscape, attracting a diverse array of performers and audiences. Over the decades, the festival evolved to include not just theatre but also comedy, dance, physical theatre, circus, cabaret, children's shows, music, spoken word exhibitions, and more. This inclusive and eclectic nature is what sets the Edinburgh Fringe apart from other arts festivals.

Milestones in Fringe History –

1947: 8 theatre companies arrived at the Edinburgh International Festival uninvited, wanting to perform.
1959: The Festival Fringe Society was formed to coordinate the event, ensuring it remained open to anyone who wished to perform without selection or censorship.
1981: The introduction of the Fringe Club provided a dedicated space for artists and audiences to mingle, fostering a sense of community.
2000: Over 600,000 tickets were sold to the Fringe Festival.
2006: The Fringe surpassed 1.5 million ticket sales, cementing its status as a major international festival.
2019: The Fringe celebrated its 70th anniversary with a record-breaking 3,841 shows, demonstrating its enduring appeal and dynamic nature.
2020: Due to the pandemic, the festival had to run online and virtually but still hosted hundreds of performances.
2021: With the effects of the pandemic still in effect, the festival ran on a split schedule with 528 in-person shows and 414 online.
2022: The first fully in-person event since the pandemic, more than 2.2 million tickets were sold.
2023: 2023 saw the highest ticket sales in the history of the festival, with 2,445,609 tickets sold.

The Fringe Today

Today, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is synonymous with groundbreaking performances and artistic freedom. It offers a platform for both emerging talents and established artists, drawing an audience eager to experience the unexpected. From stand-up comedy and physical theatre to circus cabaret and children's shows, the range of performances is staggering. The festival's open-access policy means there are no barriers to entry, allowing for a thrilling mix of professional and amateur acts.

Some world-famous names within the performing arts spaces, made their name and fame at the film festival, including the likes of Noel Fielding, Rowan Atkinson, Graham Norton, Miranda Hart, Russel Brand and so many more.

Kiki, travel blogger at The Blonde Abroad, told us why you should definitely consider visiting this iconic festival: “Visiting the Edinburgh Fringe Festival will have you laughing, crying, gasping, possibly even cringing, and definitely drinking, so don’t miss this bucket list festival!”

A Hub of Artistic Expression

Unicycle at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival

The festival has also become a crucial launching pad for careers in the arts. Many now-famous comedians and actors, including Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Hugh Laurie, and Rowan Atkinson, honed their craft on the Fringe's stages. It's a place where the boundaries of traditional performance are pushed, and new art forms are born.

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival runs concurrently with several other major events, including the Edinburgh International Festival, the Edinburgh International Book Festival, and the Edinburgh Art Festival. These concurrent celebrations further enrich the city's cultural offering, making August a truly spectacular time to visit Edinburgh.

For those travelling to Edinburgh on a cruise, the Fringe offers an immersive cultural experience unlike any other. Stroll down the Royal Mile, where street performers showcase their talents amidst a bustling crowd. Catch a stand-up comedy act, explore a music or spoken word exhibition, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere that envelops the city.

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival's history is a testament to the power of artistic expression and the unifying spirit of performance. From its rebellious beginnings to its current status as a global cultural icon, the Fringe embodies the essence of creativity and inclusivity.

Daniela, a travel blogger at Grumpy Camel, visited the festival a few years ago and has given her thoughts: “There are hundreds of great shows at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, from comedy shows and street performances to world-class plays and animal-free circuses. The standard fee for a good show is £5-20. Many first-time Fringe performers give free shows.”

Whether you're a seasoned festivalgoer or a first-time visitor, the Fringe promises a journey of discovery and delight in the heart of Edinburgh. As you explore the festival, you become part of a living history that continues to inspire and captivate audiences from around the world.

If Scotland or Edinburgh are destinations you can’t wait to visit, then a British Isles cruise on Ambition or Ambience is just a click away. Browse our late deals now for some great 2024 and 2025 cruises.

If you’re looking for more travel guides and articles, from destination guides to tips for making the most of your cruise, you can find them on our blog.

0808 303 4631