Unleash Your Inner Explorer: Edinburgh Festival Tips For Newbies 2014

Welcome to the vibrant and enchanting city of Edinburgh, Scotland, where every August, the world gathers to celebrate the arts and culture during the highly anticipated Edinburgh Festival. Whether you are a first-time visitor or an experienced festival-goer, this guide will provide you with invaluable tips to make the most of your experience at the Edinburgh Festival 2014.

1. Plan Ahead for Ticket Bookings

With hundreds of events happening simultaneously, it is crucial to plan your itinerary and book tickets in advance. The Edinburgh Festival attracts thousands of visitors, and many shows sell out quickly. Make sure to research the program, identify your must-see performances, and secure your tickets as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

2. Explore the Fringe

While the Edinburgh Festival features world-renowned acts at venues throughout the city, the real magic lies in the Fringe. The Fringe is an open-access festival that welcomes performers from all over the globe, offering an eclectic mix of comedy, theatre, dance, music, and more. Dive into the unknown and explore the Fringe venues, where you may stumble upon a hidden gem or witness the birth of the next big thing.

Edinburgh Festival Tips for Newbies 2014: Our 500 top tips to guide you through the world's largest arts festival

by Luis Valdez(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1075 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	167 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	184 pages
Item Weight	:	11.8 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.42 x 9 inches

FREE

3. Embrace the Street Performances

As you wander through the streets of Edinburgh, be prepared to encounter captivating street performers showcasing their talent. From mesmerizing musicians to awe-inspiring acrobats, these artists add an extra layer of magic to the festival atmosphere. Don't be afraid to stop, watch, and appreciate their incredible skills.

4. Explore the City's Historic Sites

While the festival is undoubtedly the main attraction, take some time to explore the rich history of the city. Climb up to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, stroll along the charming Royal Mile, and venture into the fascinating museums and galleries that Edinburgh has to offer. Immerse yourself in the city's heritage, and you will gain a deeper appreciation for the festival's cultural significance.

5. Dress for the Scottish Weather

Scotland is famous for its unpredictable weather, so it's essential to dress in layers and be prepared for all conditions. Pack a waterproof jacket, comfortable shoes for walking, and an umbrella to ensure you can navigate the festival without being hindered by rain or wind. Don't forget your sunglasses either, as Edinburgh's sunny days can be equally stunning.

6. Experience the Nightlife

The festivities don't end when the sun goes down. Edinburgh boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with countless bars, clubs, and pubs to choose from. After a day filled with performances, mingle with fellow festival-goers, enjoy live music, and savor a traditional Scottish whisky to complete your Edinburgh Festival experience.

7. Engage with the Locals

One of the most rewarding aspects of attending the Edinburgh Festival is the opportunity to interact with locals who are proud to share their city with visitors. Strike up conversations with performers, venue staff, and fellow attendees, as they can offer valuable insights and recommendations about hidden gems not to be missed.

8. Pace Yourself

The festival may last for weeks, but it's impossible to see everything. Avoid the urge to cram too many shows and activities into each day. Instead, embrace the spirit of exploration, leaving room for serendipitous discoveries and moments of relaxation. Remember, it's about quality, not quantity.

The Edinburgh Festival is an extraordinary celebration of the arts, and by following these tips, you will navigate the labyrinth of events and experiences with ease. Embrace the unknown, immerse yourself in the festival's vibrant atmosphere, and let the magic of Edinburgh captivate your senses. Unleash your inner explorer and create lasting memories at the Edinburgh Festival 2014!

Edinburgh Festival Tips for Newbies 2014: Our 500 top tips to guide you through the world's largest arts festival

by Luis Valdez(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1075 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	167 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	184 pages
Item Weight	:	11.8 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.42 x 9 inches

FREE

Every August, Edinburgh comes alive with 25,000 comedians, actors, musicians, dancers, military bandsmen, artists, circus performers and street entertainers from around the world. The Edinburgh Festival is the largest arts festival in the world, with well over 1,000 events to choose from every single day.

It’s a thrilling experience; but if you are new to the Festival it can be overwhelming. Where do you start? How can you possibly choose just a handful of shows to go to from so many? What do you need to bring? How do you find somewhere to stay?

Experienced Festival-goers Brian and Tim Kirby (father and son) have put together this short guide for Festival newbies, full of hundreds of practical tips based on their 40 years at the Festival. It covers the International Festival, the Fringe, the free festivals, the Military Tattoo, the Book Festival and the Arts Festival, outlining what you can expect and how you can make the most of your time.

There are tips on when to come, what (ideally) you need to do in the months and days before arriving, where best to find the information you need and some strategies for choosing what to see. It suggests how to buy tickets efficiently, what to expect of the main venues, how to approach all the inevitable queuing, and where to find the best seats.

And there are plenty more tips on the practicalities: the weather, travelling to Edinburgh, finding accommodation, getting your bearings, public transport and so on. There are even a few suggestions of places to find calm away from the bustle.

This guide is ideal for anyone new to the Festival – and even regular Festival-goers will find some useful tips. It should help you save time and money, feel confident and get the most out of your stay in Edinburgh.

Have a wonderful and memorable Festival.