The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

For a spectacle like no other, go and see The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Set in the grounds of Edinburgh Castle, the annual three week event is an exciting festival of music, theatre and dance, and rightfully one of the most popular events in all of Europe. Televised in more than 40 countries around the world, viewing figures reach more than 100 million people.

Each year the Tattoo starts with a service from the British Armed Forces. With performers from every corner of the globe, the Tattoo is a truly global festival, and you’ll see traditional Scottish bagpipes played alongside international army bands, with each year inspired by a different theme. Hear old favourites perform their rousing music, including the Band of The Irish Guards, the Massed Pipes and Drums and The Royal Logistic Corps, while discovering new talents from all around the world.

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo isn’t all about music. Along with the rest of the 220,000-strong audience, you’ll be entertained by all kinds of performances, including motorbike displays, light shows and contemporary dancing. With 1,000 performers taking part in every Tattoo, there really is something for everyone to enjoy.

At night, Edinburgh Castle is floodlit as you listen to one lone piper bringing the evening to a close with a stirring, emotional performance. As fireworks light up the sky, the audience sings Auld Lang Syne as you watch military jets flying above the castle, finishing the night in regal, dramatic fashion.

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Find more Things To Do in Edinburgh: Arthur's Seat | Edinburgh Castle | Edinburgh Gin Distillery Tour | Scottish National Gallery