Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Overview

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a spectacular annual military performance held on the Castle Esplanade, featuring massed pipe bands, military displays, and international performers against the dramatic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

Highlights

• Massed Pipes and Drums: The climactic moment when hundreds of pipers and drummers from regiments across the world play together on the castle esplanade.
• The Castle Backdrop: The floodlit castle provides one of the most dramatic performance settings anywhere in the world.
• International Acts: Military and cultural performers from up to 48 countries, with a different international theme each year.

History

First performed in 1950 with just eight acts, the Tattoo has grown into one of the world's most spectacular outdoor shows, drawing over 220,000 spectators each August. It has been televised to an estimated global audience of 100 million people.

Visitor Tips

• Book Months Ahead: The 8,800 nightly seats sell out within weeks of going on sale — book as early as possible.
• August Only: Performances run Monday to Saturday during the three weeks of the Edinburgh Festival season.
• Duration: Approximately 90 minutes.