- Ellie Street
A city transformed into a giant playground for the arts, where every street, pub, and nook becomes a stage. That’s the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. It’s a vibrant, chaotic, and exhilarating celebration of creativity that takes over Edinburgh, every August for three weeks. For the 12th year in a row, YOURGB programmed The List Festival Party to mark the beginning of the Fringe, and we’re about to board the inaugural Playbill FringeShip to manage the floating hotel’s programming this weekend.
And, we’re already (!) halfway through. Navigating Edinburgh during August can be a bit of a roller coaster experience – with some preparation and a positive mindset, you can make the most of this vibrant and unique time in the city.
Our team at YOURGB are an eclectic mix of professionals which includes some performers who have performed in Fringe shows over the last few years. This year, our wonderful Creative Administrator – Rachael – stars in the acclaimed Trainspotting Live at the Pleasance at the EICC. Grab your ticket here!
So, you’ve gone full throttle on week one and your energy tank (and wallet) is depleted and now you need some inspo on how to survive week two and three! Here are my top tips for surviving the Edinburgh Fringe from beginning to end:
- The Edinburgh Fringe Festival App 2024 has everything in one place. Book your shows, use the map and stay on top of your calendar and timings. https://www.edfringe.com/experience/app
- Save some pennies and take a stroll along the bustling Royal Mile where you can enjoy some street acts and snippets of Fringe performers showcasing their acts on the pop-up stages.
- Stay hydrated and get enough rest!
- Variety is the spice of life – don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and see something new or different.
Where Should I Go?
A stone’s throw away from the Grassmarket, take a trip to the heart of the Cowgate and experience the hub that is The Three Sisters. This venue plays host to The Edinburgh Free Fringe and their own ticketed shows, children’s shows, live music, a lively outdoor courtyard as well as shows and DJs that go on into the wee hours – there is something for everyone!
139 Cowgate, Edinburgh EH1 1JS
Throughout August, some fabulous outdoor areas pop-up and are perfect for people watching, celebrity spotting and beer drinking (in the sunshine if we are lucky!). George Square Gardens, Pleasance Courtyard and Bristo Square – to name a few – are also great spots to snag some scran from local food vendors. Check out the Fringe App and map for more options as well, it really is a one stop shop for information.
What Should I Bring?
Edinburgh’s weather is notoriously unpredictable so I would recommend bringing a waterproof jacket or umbrella. Other essentials in my bag include a reusable water bottle, portable phone charger and snacks! Comfy shoes are a MUST whilst venturing across Edinburgh’s cobbly terrain and a good sense of humour if you get pulled up for some audience participation during a show.
In Need of Inspiration?
Take a look at some of Team YOURGB’s most recommended shows of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2024:
- Check out winners of Best Cabaret at the Adelaide Fringe 2024 Messy Friends, Swamplesque (if you’re a Shrek fan) or (if you’re a Swiftie) The Taylor Swift Eras Drag Party for all things drag and cabaret.
- Acrobatic female powerhouse Yuck Circus could be for you or Beats on Pointe if you’re looking for some groovy dancing and comedy!
- Or simply enjoy some of our favourite comedians – James Roque, Christopher Hall & Joanne McNally
- You can also check out The List Magazine’s top Fringe Show recommendations.
The Edinburgh Fringe is a Festival like no other, so take the time to support and celebrate arts & culture – who knows you might stumble across the next big thing!
