Edinburgh International Festival 2025: A Global Celebration of Art and Performance
Festival Dates & Theme
The Edinburgh International Festival 2025 runs from Friday 1 August to Sunday 24 August, presenting a three-week roster of world-class performances across opera, music, theatre, and dance. This year’s theme, “The Truth We Seek”, invites audiences to explore truth in its many forms – personal, artistic, and societal.
What You’ll Experience
The festival offers a rich and varied programme, combining grand classical concerts, groundbreaking theatre, cutting-edge dance, and innovative opera. Highlights include a European premiere of a newly staged Orpheus and Eurydice, created in collaboration with Australian circus company Circa. Audiences can also expect immersive experiences—from eight-hour choral works and promenade dance to boundary-pushing performances where hip-hop meets Bach.
Star-Studded Line-Up
This year’s curated selection includes collaborations between international and local artists. Scottish violinist and Festival Director Nicola Benedetti leads the artistic vision.. Among the standout events is the world premiere of the satirical drama Make It Happen, featuring Brian Cox as the ghost of Adam Smith—a theatrical exploration of the 2008 financial crisis.
Accessible and Family-Friendly
The International Festival continues a strong tradition of accessibility, offering relaxed, BSL‑interpreted, and audio‑described performances. Families are especially welcome – with special events like the “Art of Listening for Families” workshops and traditional ceilidh sessions in Princes Street Gardens.
Plan Your Visit
Tickets are on sale now via the official EIF channels, with a range of venues including Usher Hall, Festival Theatre, Queen’s Hall, and the newly opened Dunard Centre.
The 2025 Edinburgh International Festival promises a blend of virtuosity, originality, and global perspectives—all held together under the compelling theme of “The Truth We Seek.” From 1–24 August, join audiences from around the world in celebrating the performing arts in Edinburgh’s iconic venues.
For full listings and tickets, visit eif.co.uk.