Edinburgh Entertainment

After a day of sightseeing and exploration of the local history and architecture, most visitors are ready to unwind at a local pub or nightclub. Edinburgh has many great places to choose from. Visitors who wish to lay low and enjoy a quieter, more relaxed evening will have no problem finding an accommodating place such as the chill-out section of the Brass Monkey on Drummond Street, where patrons can relax in comfortable chairs and watch a movie, shown on the bars cinema screen. The city's nightlife doesn't usually get started until a little before midnight, when the restaurants close and the nightclubs open.

Nightlife

Those looking for long-lasting parties have plenty of nightclubs and bars to choose from. Edinburgh's more lively districts include Westend, Grassmarket and Rose Street. These areas are always lively, with the liveliest nights on weekends. The music and parties continue well into the early morning hours.

Locals are proud of their Scotch whisky, and most of the areas party scenes are fuelled by local spirits. Visitors who are looking to take an informal tour of the region's Scotch will find that most establishments have several to choose from and that locals love the opportunity to guide your selection.

Theatre and music

Edinburgh's theatrical heritage is rich and varied, and visitors with a taste for the theatre can choose from many productions staged at venues across the city. The Kings Theatre and the Royal Lyceum Theatre both hold shows throughout the year. The Edinburgh Festival Theatre is perhaps the city's most reputable venue, known for its unique glass front. Throughout the year, this theatre hosts drama, concert, cabaret and opera performances.

Typically, concerts are held at Queens Hall and the Corn Exchange. Smaller venues showcase live musical acts all over the city, with groups performing jazz, folk, blues, rock and pop at various nightclubs. International DJs also hit Edinburgh frequently.

The Fringe Festival is held in August. During this time, repertory players from all over Europe perform shows and stage various productions during the length of the festival. Often, those wishing to attend these shows find that advance booking is essential.

Festivals

There are several annual festivals held in Edinburgh. The famous arts festivals are among the most popular and held during the summer months.

• Hogmany is held on New Year's Eve and involves a lively street party in the city's centre.
• In late January, Burns Night commemorates the life of the Scottish poet Robert Burns through the holding of traditional suppers in his memory.
• Edinburgh International Science Festival is held in April and features exhibits and events at several venues around the city.
• During the month of June, the Edinburgh Royal Highland show features exhibits, events and competitions centred on the region's agriculture.
• In August, the Edinburgh Festival takes centre stage with several events and incorporated festivals highlighting Scottish art and culture. This line up of separate festivals include the International Festival, a book festival, the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a film festival and the Fringe Festival.