Literary Pub Tour

1 Nov 2009 - 28 Feb 2010; Fri only (various dates)

The two actor-guides in the Literary Pub Tour take visitors around old and new Edinburgh with dramatised stories of the city's literary wits. Starting at the Beehive Inn, it takes in historic pubs and quirky landmarks, ending at the Café Royal.

National Home & Design Show

Mar 2010 (annual)

The National Home & Design Show at Ingliston's Royal Highland Centre is aimed at providing recognition for the best in the industry of the highest quality products and services within the property and home interior markets.

Mary King's Ghost Fest

18 - 23 Mar 2010 (annual)

Edinburgh has given birth to numerous legends and tales of ghosts and ghouls that abound in this ancient city. Mary King's Ghost Fest explores this paranormal side of Edinburgh with activities aimed at young and old alike.

Ragamuffin

1 Oct 2009 - 30 Apr 2010; not Sun (various dates)

Enchanting Ragamuffin in the Royal Mile stocks reasonably priced designer knitwear, slippers, stuffed animal toys, bags and gifts by young British and international designers. All products use natural fibre like boiled wool and linen, and are strictly fair trade.

Edinburgh International Harp Festival

9 - 14 Apr 2010 (annual)

The clarsach (small harp) was widespread among the peoples of Scotland, Ireland and Wales long before the bagpipes. Since 1982, the Clarsach Society has celebrated its heritage with the residential Edinburgh International Harp Festival at Merchiston Castle School.

Edinburgh International Science Festival

3 - 17 Apr 2010 (annual)

The Edinburgh International Science Festival attracts around 70,000 visitors for a variety of hands-on activities, workshops and shows for children, demonstrations, exhibitions, talks and tours, offering more than 200 events in 20 venues throughout the city.

Beltane Festival

30 Apr 2010 (annual)

Held every year at the top of Edinburgh's Calton Hill, the Beltane Fire Festival is a modern take on an ancient Celtic fertility ceremony. Costumed revellers dance around the hill accompanied by drummers, musicians and spectacular props.

BUPA Great Edinburgh Run

May 2010 (annual)

Formerly the Capital City Challenge and a part of the BUPA Great Caledonian Run, the BUPA Great Edinburgh Run attracts several thousand runners each year.

Dead by Dawn Horror Film Festival

Apr - May 2010 (annual)

Dead by Dawn - the UK's only festival devoted entirely to horror film - returns to the Edinburgh Filmhouse for four days of fear...

Great Scottish Walk

Jun 2010 (annual)

The Great Scottish Walk, in Edinburgh offers three routes of one, six and twelve miles commencing at 10.30am from Meadowbank Stadium and proceeding down to Holyrood Park for the official 11am start. The event attracts over 6000 walkers per year and raises over £1million for charity.

Domenico's

Daily

Domenico's is an unfussy, super-cosy neighbourhood bistro and a hit with Leith residents, so booking is essential. The Italian food is delicious, plentiful, and served with panache. Just beware, diners that order an entrée often don't have room for a dessert, as the portions are huge. The antipasti and the seafood main are both good options.

St Giles' Cathedral

Daily

Gothic St Giles' Cathedral in the Old Town is known as the High Kirk. Here, Reformationist John Knox gave speeches, inciting religious riots. Look out for medieval carvings of bizarre creatures and impressive stained-glass windows. There are concerts on Sunday night.

Calton Hill

Daily

Calton Hill in the New Town offers an easier climb than Arthur's Seat with equally rewarding views of Victorian buildings and chimneys. It's sprinkled with neo-Renaissance structures such as the unfinished replica of the Parthenon and the telescope-shaped Nelson Monument.

Edinburgh Playhouse

Daily

The Belle Epoque Edinburgh Playhouse in Leith remains true to its origins as a variety theatre. This is the place to see blockbuster musicals such as Chicago or Mary Poppins, as well as Russian ballet, rock concerts and opera.

Borough

Daily

At stylish Borough in Edinburgh, let skilled barstaff mix you one of their cocktails. The venue itself is airy and open-plan, furnished with orb lighting and large sofas to help you relax in style.

The Filmhouse

Daily

The Filmhouse on Lothian Rd is an Edinburgh institution. Along with blockbusters, the cinema programmes arthouse film, mini film festivals and the summer International Film Festival. There's also a good selection of DVDs for sale here.

99 Hanover Street

Daily

99 Hanover Street is one of the New Town's most relaxed bars. Rococo-style decor and a screen showing silent movies make it a good place to meet friends. There is an extensive cocktail list, and DJs and live music regularly.

Victoria Street

Daily

Victoria Street was built in the 18th century as an access route from Grassmarket to George IV Bridge and the Royal Mile. Sweeping up the hill in a wide S shape, it is known for its boutiques and their grand facades.

Howies

Daily

Howies has established itself at the forefront of the Scottish culinary rebirth. Gone are stodgy deep fried foods, replaced by fresh Scottish ingredients cooked in imaginative ways. Try haggis croquettes or meaty pheasant stuffed with apple and apricot and wrapped in bacon.

Restaurant Martin Wishart

Daily; not Mon or Sun

Inspired Michelin-starred chef Martin Wishart creates wonders from fresh ingredients at his restaurant in Leith. Starched tablecloths create a pure, minimalist atmosphere where food is the primary feature. Every course is a surprise, for example scallops and artichoke in hazelnut butter and coffee sauce. The enormous cheese selection in between courses is recommended.

Edinburgh Zoo

Daily

Edinburgh Zoo gives its animals the highest quality care, and in doing so provides its visitors with the best possible day out. Penguin feeding time (in the world's biggest penguin pool) is always a favourite.

Roti

Daily

Unique Roti in the New Town takes a refreshingly innovative approach to Indian food in sleek but informal surrounds. It offers the chance to sample creations like seared halibut in coconut sauce with beetroot wafers, or duck breast with marrow and ginger. The desserts include glorious creations such as Manjari chocolate and cardamom torte.

The Jazz Bar

Daily

The intimate, relaxed Jazz Bar in the Old Town is Edinburgh's only dedicated jazz venue. Opened by jazz musician and organiser Bill Kyle in 2005, it has a varied programme of DJs and live jazz and soul every night.

Skippers

Daily

Veteran Skippers has been presiding over the docks of Leith for 25 years. It is an upmarket bistro ideal for both lunch and dinner. Revel in the old-worldly, wood-panelled interior plastered with vintage maps and sailing mementos. Try the organic Shetland salmon, whole baby plaice or Cullen skink. The menu changes according to season.

Siam Thani

Daily

The simple but impeccably turned out Siam Thani is a neighbourhood favourite in Broughton. It serves classic, fresh Thai food at very reasonable prices, and the service is quick and faultless. The vegetarian menu is very good, but the cheap set-lunch menus and pre-theatre menus are also recommended.

The Grassmarket

Daily

Nestled in the heart of the historic Old Town, the Grassmarket area is one of the most historic, vibrant and popular parts of Edinburgh.

The Scotch Whisky Experience

Daily

Take a light-hearted, child-friendly barrel ride through the making, storing and imbibing of Scotland's national drink at The Scotch Whisky Experience in the Old Town. The ticket includes a dram of whisky, and a visit to the well-stocked shop is recommended.

Pivo Caffe

Daily

A popular pre-club venue for Edinburgh's hipsters, Pivo has a selection of Czech lagers on tap as well as a shooter menu for those looking to really make a night of it. The low-ceilinged bar features DJs spinning a variety of music from hip-hop to soul and Latin.

Café Royal Circle Bar

Daily

One of Edinburgh's oldest pubs, Café Royal Circle Bar is tucked away in a small New Town street. A traditional Victorian pub with wooden bar and tile-pictures of inventors, this is a relaxing place to enjoy a pint of ale.

Dean Gallery

Daily

The Dean Gallery was opened in 1999 to complement the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, which stands opposite, and to house the latter's collection of Dada and Surrealist art and work by Sir Eduardo Paolozzi. A converted orphan hospital built in the 1830s, it is yet another of the Scottish National Galleries' lavish and prestigious museums, and an Edinburgh art "must-see".

The Bailie Bar

Daily

The Bailie is at the heart of the village of Stockbridge and feels as if it could substitute as a public meeting hall for the neighbourhood. Often there is plenty of banter between the regulars and the staff, and no music ever drowns out the conversation here.

Our Dynamic Earth

Daily

One of the Millennium Commission's success stories, Our Dynamic Earth is a testament to the forces that shape our planet. A fantastic journey takes visitors through the fascinating story of the Earth, with a multi-sensory insight into the past, present and future.

Po Na Na

Daily

Located just off George Street, Po Na Na is designed to look like a Moroccan casbah thanks to wall mosaics, brass lanterns and artifacts shipped in from Marrakech. Expect hip-hop and funk or disco and sounds of the '80s.

Usher Hall

Daily

Usher Hall on Lothian Road is Edinburgh's premier concert venue and is being refurbished into a grander version of itself. In August 2008 it reopened to continue its hosting of world-class classical, jazz and rock music and Edinburgh festival events.

Crombie's

Daily; not Sun

The award-winning Crombie's butcher has been on Broughton Street for more than 45 years and is known across Scotland for its quality cuts. Selling a delicious haggis, it is most famous for its 40 different varieties of sausage.

Nargile

Daily; not Sun

Nargile in the New Town is the only Turkish restaurant in Edinburgh. It has a warm, simple decor with Byzantine-style motifs, and the service is excellent. The "banquet meals" for two people are a feast and a bargain, or try the succulent moussaka-like lamb and Nargile aubergine special. There are also excellent vegetarian choices.

Number One

Daily

Nestled snugly inside The Balmoral Hotel in the New Town, Michelin-starred Number One offers a first-class menu with Franco-Scottish overtones. Red lacquered walls and gold velvet seats create an atmosphere of restrained luxury. Young British artists' work decorates the walls. Try the chef's spectacular seven-course tasting menu which offers wine pairings. It opens only at night.

Cafe Royal Oyster Bar

Daily

The Cafe Royal Oyster Bar has been a fixture on the Edinburgh dining circuit for years, tucked away on West Register Street. With eight large stained glass windows and the tables smartly decked out in white tablecloths it feels like a step back in time.

Arthur's Seat

Daily

Edinburgh has an extinct volcano at its heart. Rising above Holyroodhouse Palace, Arthur's Seat is an easy get-away from the bustle of the centre. Climb the well-trodden paths to take in the panoramic city views.

Harvey Nichols

Daily

Exclusive department store Harvey Nichols in the New Town's St Andrews Square is for shoppers with deep pockets. It's worth visiting for stylish clothes for men and women, elegant displays of beauty products and the top-floor gourmet hall, restaurant and brasserie.

Urban Angel

Daily

Urban Angel is a versatile, simple café-bistro in the New Town specialising in organic and fair-trade food. Its philosophy is to provide outstanding fare that "won't cost you the earth". It is ideal for a relaxed lunch or dinner. Try the staple crayfish risotto, or choose from a list of excellent vegetarian and carnivore options.

Oloroso

Daily

Edinburgh's beautiful people gather to eat and drink at Oloroso. The roof terrace, which provides views of the castle on one side and the Firth of Forth and Fife on the other, is a particularly special place to sip a cocktail.

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

Daily

The grand Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art building is located west of the city centre in a spectacular sculpture garden. It houses notable works by Matisse, Picasso, Bacon and Warhol as well as an extensive collection of Scottish works.

The Stand

Daily

Edinburgh's most convivial comedy venue, The Stand in the New Town is a good choice for a relaxed night of comedy and drinks. The weekends are crowded, noisy and fun, while Wednesday and Thursday nights are more experimental, with improvisation and sketches.

Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World

Daily

At Edinburgh's Butterfly & Insect World visitors can wander through a tropical rainforest (regardless of the weather) and see a wide variety of exotic and beautiful butterflies as well as other more creepy creatures!

Cloisters

Daily

Cloisters is converted from part of an old parsonage and is an oasis of calm. A malt-of-the-moment is available every day at a reduced price; savour it at one of the large wooden tables by the open fire.

Artisan Roast

Daily

Friendly coffee boutique Artisan Roast in the New Town roasts hand-picked, ethically sourced coffee beans. Admire the ornate coffee roaster while sipping some of the best coffee and hot chocolate in Edinburgh, and savouring locally made organic Coco chocolates.

Ecco Vino

Daily

Ecco Vino is a simple enoteca in the Old Town's steepest street, just off the Royal Mile. More than 50 kinds of Old and New-World wines line the walls. There's also a traditional Italian menu that includes antipasti, pasta and salads, making it an attractive choice for relaxed dinners and drinks.

Black Bo's

Daily

A stone's throw from the Royal Mile, this compact bar is neither a traditional pub nor a particularly trendy place. Many will find its dark walls and mix-and-match furniture downright plain, but it does have an unforced hipness.

Royal Mile Whiskies

Daily

The wonderfully old-fashioned Royal Mile Whiskies shop in the Old Town contains over 300 varieties of single malts, blended whiskies and bourbons. Its staff are helpful and very knowledgeable; sample tastes are provided on request.

Concrete Wardrobe

Daily

Original Scottish-designed gifts are for sale at Concrete Wardrobe in the New Town. Browse accessories made from Shetland wool and cashmere, funky jewellery, and other hand-crafted goods by Scottish designers.

Espionage

Daily

Espionage is a large club spread over five floors, just off the Grassmarket in the Old Town. Open until late, it has themed rooms such as the Lizard Lounge and Moroccan Kasbah. The lower floors can get busy when the student crowd arrives.

Alistir Wood Tait

Daily; not Mon or Sun

A 30-year-old institution in New Town, Alistir Wood Tait's jewellery store specialises in Scottish gems and designs, as well as antiques. Splash out on cuff-links made from Highland gold nuggets, a plaid pin or a silver quaich (double-handled bowl for drinking whisky).

Outsider

Daily

The trendy, vibrant and very popular Outsider restaurant in the Old Town focuses on no-nonsense, simple eating and fresh ingredients. There are no entrées, but the main courses are ample, the service is fast and the desserts creative. Try the lemon myrtle cheesecake. The restaurant also has superb views of the Castle and Old Town.

HBOS Museum on the Mound

Daily; not Mon

A new addition to Edinburgh's museums, the HBOS Museum on the Mound explores the heritage of the city through artefacts and information on trade, technology, art and design, crime and security and money. Exhibits include the oldest Scottish bank note (from 1716).

Edinburgh Castle

Daily

Above the Old Town, Edinburgh Castle dominates the city and is at the epicentre of Scottish history. Tour guides tell of former royal residents, showing visitors the crown jewels and Stone of Destiny, as well as the dingy Vaults below.

Royal Botanic Garden

Daily

The plants of the Royal Botanic Gardens in Stockbridge live in their own secluded world. Visitors can stroll among ponds, a rock garden and rare flowers, or experience the 10 different climate zones of the glass-houses. Some species are 200 years old.

Rhubarb

Daily

The magnificently plush Rhubarb in South Edinburgh is located in opulent boutique hotel Prestonfield. Come for the decor but also for the fine food. Main courses include dishes such as pigeon with Muscat dressing and the assiette of Rhubarb's desserts is worth waiting for. There are also some excellent vegetarian and seafood options, like the sea bass and artichoke ravioli.

The Witchery

Daily

The Witchery, just a few steps from Edinburgh Castle in the Old Town, has a reputation as one of the city's best restaurants. Dine by candlelight in a beautifully restored 16th-century building that exudes medieval luxury. The small but exquisite menu features delights like pistachio-crusted wild sea bass, Scottish game, and oysters. Come for romantic dinners or opt for excellent-value lunch menus.

The Palace of Holyroodhouse

Daily

The 12th-century Palace of Holyroodhouse in the Old Town is the Queen's official residence in Scotland. When she is absent, the splendid apartments and galleries are open to the public. Audio guides tell of Mary Queen of Scots witnessing a murder here.

Royal Yacht Britannia

Daily

Having served the Royal family for more than 40 years, travelling over a million miles, the Royal Yacht Britannia is now moored on Leith's waterfront. A fascinating insight into the Royal lifestyle, it is one of Edinburgh's most popular attractions.

The Grain Store Restaurant

Daily

Housed in a former 17th-century storehouse, The Grain Store Restaurant has candle-lit stone walls that create an antique atmosphere perfect for intimate dinners. Home-made bread and classic recipes using local produce make it an excellent all-rounder. Loch Fyne oysters, venison and guinea fowl are all great choices. Lunches are great value and the classic Old Town view is one of the best.

Greyfriars Kirk

Daily

Greyfriars Kirk - officially Greyfriars Tolbooth & Highland Kirk - was the first church built in Edinburgh after the Reformation, in 1562, on the grounds of the old Franciscan convent.

Valvona and Crolla Vincaffè

Daily

A spin off of the multi award-winning delicatessen on nearby Elm Row, the Vincaffè holds the same values as its big sister. Created to mark the 70th anniversary of the deli, great Italian dishes served in comfortable surroundings makes Valvona and Crolla a great place for a pre-theatre bite.

Forth Floor Restaurant

Daily

Located at Harvey Nichols, the Forth Floor Restaurant boasts superb views that stretch as far as the Firth of Forth on a clear day. There's also quality cuisine here, with succulent dishes using fresh Scottish produce. The menu includes venison, oxtail and vegetarian risotto with lime and ginger. The ambiance is simple and relaxed.

The Bongo Club

Daily

The Bongo Club is a multi-arts venue in the Old Town with regular dance music and punk nights, salsa and swing dance classes, as well as a café and exhibitions. There are also comedy acts here during the Edinburgh Festival.

National Gallery of Scotland

Daily

Housed in a grand neo-Classical building on the New Town's Mound, the National Gallery of Scotland boasts one of the world's best collections of European art. Admire the extensive Scottish collection, and look out for Raeburn's famous Skating Minister.

Sandy Bell's

Daily

Sandy Bell's is a landmark pub in the Old Town. It might be small but it's full of character. Gaelic overtones, warm vibes and good beer make it a favourite with locals. There's live music almost every night and at weekends.

Edinburgh Festival Theatre

Daily

Edinburgh Festival Theatre presents large-scale productions of modern dance, ballet, musicals and internationally renowned theatrical productions. The plush old King's Theatre also comes under the Festival City Theatres Trust and is located in Leven Street.

The Port O' Leith Bar

Daily

Scotch whisky is in plentiful supply at the legendary Port O' Leith Bar in Leith. The decor is an over-the-top collection of flags and nautical paraphernalia. Many local characters drink here: chat to them to hear a tale or two.

Geoffrey (Tailor) Kiltmakers & Weavers

Daily

At family-run Geoffrey (Tailor) Kiltmakers and Weavers in the Old Town, there is a large selection of classic Highlander kilts for men, women and children. Or forget tartan and choose from the selection of 21st Century Kilts made from leather or denim.

National Museum of Scotland

Daily

The award-winning National Museum of Scotland building in the Old Town showcases Scotland's history. The imaginative displays bring to life the light and dark sides of Scottish life. Look out for replicas of Scottish burghs and Dolly the Sheep.

Dean Village

Daily

The mansions of Dean Village, just north of the New Town, are from the 19th century, but the milling village dates back 700 years. Walk along the Water of Leith to see ivy-covered statues, quaint houses and the 17th-century baxters' building.

Maison Bleue

Daily

The decor in the Old Town's Maison Bleue displays Moroccan influences like the menu. Downstairs the walls are adorned with retro paintings, while upstairs the windows look over picturesque Victoria Street. The menu offers bouchées (bites) and excellent-value set menus. Try haggis balls in whisky sauce or classic Berber couscous.

The Real Mary King's Close

Daily

Underneath the Old Town's streets lurks the parallel neighbourhood of The Real Mary King's Close. In this preserved piece of medieval Edinburgh, you'll meet resident ghosts and find out how they lived until the plague exterminated them in the 1600s.

Canny Man's

Daily

Located in the genteel suburb of Morningside, Canny Man's is worth the journey out of town. A quaint pub with bric-a-brac covering every available surface, it serves hundreds of varieties of Danish open sandwich made with top quality ingredients such as topside of beef and lobster.

Jenners

Daily

The oldest and most beloved department store in Edinburgh exudes old-world grandeur. Browse six floors of beautifully displayed fashion, homewares, cosmetics, gifts and toys, and a small whisky shop. The top-floor food hall and café are heaven for foodies.

Opal Lounge

Daily

The Opal Lounge is a stylish bar in Edinburgh city centre where an award-winning mixologist creates the cocktails for a chic crowd. Make sure you dress to impress, as the clientele like to make an effort at this popular hangout.

New Town

Daily

Edinburgh's New Town is now the most extensive area of Georgian architecture in the world and is still delighting visitors with its grace and beauty.

No monthly events available.

The Scare Witch Trials

Oct 2010 (annual)

The Scare Witch Trials show Edinburgh Dungeon at its most dastardly. Deep in the dungeon's depths, unwitting visitors are suddenly embroiled in a 17th-century trial - accused of witchcraft. Will you be condemned to a long drop in a short noose?

The Hoog - New Year at the Assembly Rooms

Dec 2010 (annual)

One of the great alternative venues in Edinburgh, the Assembly Rooms' annual ceilidh-cum-dance party, The Hoog, is one of the city's most popular parties on Hogmanay night. Unsurprisingly, the tickets are like gold dust.

The Edge Festival

Aug 2010 (annual)

Fighting rock music's corner in the oversubscribed Edinburgh festival market is The Edge Festival. It takes place in some of the city's best live music venues, including the HMV Picture House, the Playhouse, Corn Exchange, Queen's Hall and Cabaret Voltaire.

Taste of Edinburgh

28 - 31 May 2010 (annual)

Visitors to Taste of Edinburgh, at Inverleith Park, can sample the best food from some of the city's top restaurants. From great Scottish fare to fine French cuisine, this day out in the park is a gastronome's dream.

Scottish International Storytelling Festival

Oct 2010 (annual)

The Scottish International Storytelling Festival regales countless tales - traditional and contemporary - every autumn. Head to the Scottish Storytelling Centre in John Knox House on Edinburgh's Royal Mile to hear a wealth of anecdotes, narratives and yarns.

Scottish Home Improvement & Self Build Show

Oct 2010 (annual)

The Scottish Home Improvement & Self Build Show at the Royal Highland Centre on the outskirts of Edinburgh is one of the largest and most exclusive self build, renovation and home improvement shows in Scotland.

Scots Fiddle Festival

Nov 2010 (annual)

Celebrating the music of Scotland, the Scots Fiddle Festival comes to the historic Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh. Amidst a welter of workshops and masterclasses, the fiddling fun includes concerts, ceilidhs and recitals.

Samhuinn Festival

Oct 2010 (annual)

The Beltane Society presents the Samhuinn Festival, a spectacular procession of music, folk dance, physical theatre and pyrotechnics illuminating the city of Edinburgh this Halloween.

Royal Highland Show

Jun 2010 (annual)

The Royal Highland Centre plays host to Scotland's annual Royal Highland Show. Running since 1822, the event embraces every conceivable pastime and pursuit related to farming, the countryside and rural living.

RSA Annual Exhibition

Nov - Dec 2010 (annual)

In addition to leading RSA Members' works, The RSA Annual Exhibition showcases the best of both established and emerging artists selected from across the country, presenting a comprehensive cross section of contemporary art in Scotland.

National Home & Design Show

Mar 2010 (annual)

The National Home & Design Show at Ingliston's Royal Highland Centre is aimed at providing recognition for the best in the industry of the highest quality products and services within the property and home interior markets.

Mary King's Ghost Fest

18 - 23 Mar 2010 (annual)

Edinburgh has given birth to numerous legends and tales of ghosts and ghouls that abound in this ancient city. Mary King's Ghost Fest explores this paranormal side of Edinburgh with activities aimed at young and old alike.

Imaginate Festival

10 - 17 May 2010 (annual)

Edinburgh hosts the annual Imaginate Festival, Britain's biggest performing arts festival for kids. Leading international children's theatre groups bring wonder, drama and excitement in productions for kids from tots to teens, to theatres around the city.

Great Winter Run

Jan 2011 (annual)

Too much festive indulgence? Turn over a new leaf and join Edinburgh's Great Winter Run. As the sister event of the BUPA Great Edinburgh Run it gets the muscles working over a 5km circuit around spectacular Arthur's Seat.

Great Scottish Walk

Jun 2010 (annual)

The Great Scottish Walk, in Edinburgh offers three routes of one, six and twelve miles commencing at 10.30am from Meadowbank Stadium and proceeding down to Holyrood Park for the official 11am start. The event attracts over 6000 walkers per year and raises over £1million for charity.

Edinburgh's Hogmanay

Dec 2010 - Jan 2011 (annual)

Bearing in mind the Scottish propensity for old-fashioned revelry, one would expect a few choruses of Auld Lang Syne on New Year's Eve. In this spirit Edinburgh hosts four days of festivities including processions, concerts and a world-famous street party.

Edinburgh's Christmas Days Out

Nov 2010 - Jan 2011 (annual)

Britain's biggest open-air ice-rink, Edinburgh's Winter Wonderland is set up annually in Princes Street Gardens. The city's Christmas festivities also include a market and kick off with the lighting of the Christmas lights.

Edinburgh Military Tattoo

6 - 28 Aug 2010; not Sun (annual)

Against the spectacular backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, the Edinburgh Tattoo has been a must since its first outing in 1950 and its blend of military bands and displays, including an eclectic mix of international visitors, never fails to please.

Edinburgh Mela

Aug 2010 (annual)

Mela, from Sanskrit, is an Asian subcontinent community festival. Edinburgh's ethnic communities have followed suit since 1995 and celebrate Scottish diversity in Pilrig Park, off Leith Walk, with their own Edinburgh Mela.

Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival

Jul - Aug 2010 (annual)

Every year the Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival presents top-quality performers in venues around the city. Founded in 1978 when jazz guitarist Mike Hart booked a weekend of bands, it is now the longest-running jazz festival in the country.

Edinburgh International Tango Festival

28 - 31 May 2010 (annual)

Argentine passion and flair come to Edinburgh during the International Tango Festival. Attendees can watch and learn from some of the best dancers in the world and also burn up the dance floor at the Spring Ball.

Edinburgh International Science Festival

3 - 17 Apr 2010 (annual)

The Edinburgh International Science Festival attracts around 70,000 visitors for a variety of hands-on activities, workshops and shows for children, demonstrations, exhibitions, talks and tours, offering more than 200 events in 20 venues throughout the city.

Edinburgh International Harp Festival

9 - 14 Apr 2010 (annual)

The clarsach (small harp) was widespread among the peoples of Scotland, Ireland and Wales long before the bagpipes. Since 1982, the Clarsach Society has celebrated its heritage with the residential Edinburgh International Harp Festival at Merchiston Castle School.

Edinburgh International Film Festival

Jun 2010 (annual)

The Edinburgh International Film Festival is the world's oldest continually running film festival. In 2008 it moved to June, while retaining its wide programme, including international premières and retrospectives on show at the Edinburgh Filmhouse.

Edinburgh International Festival Closing Fireworks Concert

Sep 2010 (annual)

Europe's largest annual firework display with live music, the Bank of Scotland Fireworks Concert is the Edinburgh International Festival's long-standing final fling. "Ooh" and "aah" at the spectacle accompanying the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and Chorus in Princes Street Gardens.

Edinburgh International Festival

13 Aug - 5 Sep 2010 (annual)

One of the world's great arts festivals, the Edinburgh International Festival (EIF) is now joined by the Fringe, Military Tattoo, Jazz and Blues, Book and Edge festivals to make Edinburgh a hotbed of artistic excellence every August.

Edinburgh International Book Festival

14 - 30 Aug 2010 (annual)

The Edinburgh International Book Festival is one of the biggest literary festivals in the English-speaking world. Each year it welcomes some 700 writers came to Charlotte Square Gardens to appear in 750 events in just 17 days.

Edinburgh Gunners Rugby Season - Magners League

4 Sep 2009 - 7 May 2010 (annual)

Rugby Union side Edinburgh Gunners welcome Magners League teams to the Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh for the 2009/2010 season. Please visit the club's website for full details of all fixtures.

Edinburgh Fringe Festival

6 - 30 Aug 2010 (annual)

While the official Edinburgh International Festival concentrates on what some like to call "the high arts", the famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival is more eclectic, developing out of a spontaneous, grass-roots response to the international high-flyers up the road.

Edinburgh Fireworks Display

Nov 2010 (annual)

Meadowbank Stadium is filled to capacity each year when it hosts Edinburgh's largest firework display. There is no bonfire or Guy, but the light show is set to be spectacular, with rockets shooting high above the city to the sound of music.

Edinburgh Festival of Music, Speech and Dance

24 Mar - 6 Apr 2010 (annual)

Amateur performers of all ages try to impress the judges at the Edinburgh Festival of Music, Speech and Dance. The festival culminates with the Final Concert at The Queen's Hall where the best soloists are accompanied by a full orchestra.

Dead by Dawn Horror Film Festival

Apr - May 2010 (annual)

Dead by Dawn - the UK's only festival devoted entirely to horror film - returns to the Edinburgh Filmhouse for four days of fear...

Beltane Festival

30 Apr 2010 (annual)

Held every year at the top of Edinburgh's Calton Hill, the Beltane Fire Festival is a modern take on an ancient Celtic fertility ceremony. Costumed revellers dance around the hill accompanied by drummers, musicians and spectacular props.

BUPA Great Edinburgh Run

May 2010 (annual)

Formerly the Capital City Challenge and a part of the BUPA Great Caledonian Run, the BUPA Great Edinburgh Run attracts several thousand runners each year.

No biennial events available.