What's on in Edinburgh throughout the year

02 February 2023|Read time 4 mins

Book a self-catering trip to Edinburgh at any time of year and you are sure to find plenty to do!

Whether you are visiting Edinburgh with friends, family or your partner, there is a wide range of activities on offer.

Scotland’s capital city provides enjoyment for all ages at festivals, markets and more.

A year in Edinburgh, Scotland

Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh, is packed full of culture, history and entertainment, from the stunning Castle overlooking the city to theatres hosting world-class performances. 

As soon as you arrive in the centre of Edinburgh you are certain to hear a bagpiper, either busking on a street corner or serenading customers in a pub. You may even recognise one of these popular tunes as they play.

Edinburgh offers a variety of shopping experiences and we highly recommend browsing the many markets in the city.

Weekly farmers’ markets sell high-quality Scottish produce, ideal for making your self-catering break that extra bit tasty.

There are also plenty of opportunities to support independent businesses in Edinburgh, whether you are looking for a gift for a loved one or something to brighten your home. 

January in Edinburgh

The month of January sees one of the highlights of the Scottish calendar, Burns Night.

Celebrating the life and work of the poet Robert Burns, 25th January sees not only Scots, but people around the world, enjoy a ‘Burns Supper’ and ceilidh at one of the many events across Edinburgh.

Each January, Edinburgh also welcomes the annual Turner Exhibition at the National Galleries of Scotland.

View watercolours and sketches by this romantic landscape painter, exhibited each January when they will not be damaged by harsh sunlight. 

February in Edinburgh

Looking for something to make Valentine’s Day special?

Book a self-catering trip to Edinburgh, both a modern, capital city and a place to encounter the past like nowhere else.

From romantic dinners to walking hand in hand through the Royal Botanic Garden, the city has something for every couple. 

February also means the arrival of international rugby, with the 6 Nations Championship starting on the first weekend of the month.

Watch Scotland take on England, France, Italy, Ireland and Wales at their national stadium, BT Murrayfield, located a short journey from Edinburgh city centre. 

What to do in Edinburgh in spring

The season of spring brings to Edinburgh the joy of warmer days, blossoming flowers and the opportunity to get outdoors.

Mother’s Day is celebrated in the UK on the fourth Sunday of Lent and is the perfect excuse to treat the special woman in your life!

From afternoon tea to sweet treats, there are plenty of ways to celebrate in Edinburgh.

The Easter holidays also offer a great chance to explore Edinburgh, one of the most popular cities in the country.

All of the family are catered for, with walking tours, urban farms and gardens.

Spring  brings the first festival of the Edinburgh calendar: the Edinburgh Science Festival.

This two-week festival allows visitors to connect with science in a whole new way, with exhibitions, seminars and performances to keep you entertained.

Summer in Edinburgh

Edinburgh truly comes alive in summer and for many, this is the best time of year to visit.

The most famous of the city’s summer events is of course the Edinburgh Fringe, the world’s largest arts and media festival.

However, plenty goes on throughout the summer months for you to enjoy.

Edinburgh’s festival season begins each June with Leith Festival, offering the opportunity to view parades and performances in the port area of the city.

The fun continues in July with the Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival, which welcomes musicians from around the world to play at venues across the city.

However, August is the main event, when the Fringe and International Festivals take over the city along with other festivals, including the Edinburgh International Book Festival.

Don’t panic if you’ve not visited Edinburgh in August before; our handy three part guide will take you through all you need to know.

Visitors to Edinburgh during the festival season can also take advantage of the many events and attractions in the city, such as the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Dynamic Earth. 

Make sure to book your self-catering accommodation for the Edinburgh festival season early as it is a very busy time of the year!

Things to do in autumn in Edinburgh

Autumn is a great season to visit Edinburgh as the festival crowds have departed but there are still plenty of attractions to enjoy.

Every September 10,000 people gather in Edinburgh for the ‘Moonwalk’, a nighttime walk raising money for those affected by breast cancer.

Participate yourself and take on the challenge of walking a half or full marathon in fancy dress!

Autumn also sees ghosts and ghouls and, as Edinburgh in one of the most haunted cities in the country, what better place to visit for Halloween?

There are ghost tours aplenty in the city as well as the Edinburgh Dungeon, offering an immersive experience for brave visitors! 

November in Edinburgh

November sees beautiful autumn colours and Edinburgh is the perfect city to enjoy them!

Soak in the changing seasons at the Royal Botanic Garden or view firework displays on Bonfire Night from one of the city’s hills.

A warm welcome awaits at BT Murrayfield, where Scotland rugby play a series of Autumn Internationals each November.

There are also many indoor attractions to enjoy at this time of year, from the National Museum of Scotland to theatre shows. 

30th November is St Andrews Day, the day of celebration for Scotland’s patron saint.

This is a great excuse to sample some traditional Scottish dishes at one of Edinburgh’s fantastic restaurants or visit historic sites such as Edinburgh Castle and St Giles’ Cathedral. 

Celebrate Christmas and Hogmanay in Edinburgh

Each December Edinburgh receives a magic touch and becomes one of the most stunning Christmas venues in the UK!

Browse the beautiful Edinburgh Christmas markets in Princes Street Gardens or enjoy one of the many festive shows at our city’s theatres. 

Edinburgh is also one of the best places to celebrate the New Year with loved ones.

The spectacular skyline provides the ideal backdrop to the world-famous Hogmanay celebrations, which include firework displays and performances from top artists.

The celebrations don’t stop on 31st December; New Year’s Day offers the traditional ‘Loony Dook’, a dip in the sea to welcome the new year!

Many people also get outdoors on New Year’s Day and take advantage of the many great walks across Edinburgh.

Book with Reserve Apartments

Edinburgh has so much to offer to visitors throughout the year, so book your next self-catering break with us today!

We look forward to sharing our fantastic city with you.