It’s August, which means the Edinburgh population trebles as tourists and performers ascend in masses to experience the world’s biggest arts festival.
With over 3,000 shows on offer, ranging from sketch shows, stand ups, award-winning A Cappella groups and tantalising theatre, there really is something for everybody.
Fringe venues are sprawled across the city and each showcase a unique feature that makes this a festival like no other. Here’s Brig’s top tips to getting the most out of your fringe experience.
Get a programme may seem obvious but it’s a completely essential bible of information. Flick through till you spot something that catches your eye, book some tickets, and enjoy.
Check out the half price hut located at Princes Street Gardens for discounted shows. This can make it easier to decide what to watch as there is less to choose from and at cheaper price.
On a budget? Visit the free festival, spread throughout clubs and pubs in the Cowgate, where there are plenty of venues with a huge variety of comedy and music on offer. Although it is Free Fringe, you are expected to leave a donation, however small to support the performers.
Food vans at George Square are fantastic for a quick bite but can be a little pricey. A five minute walk away though is a street called Teviot Row, which has an amazing selection of reasonably priced, tasty food on offer, including award-winning pizza bar Civerinos Slice.
The slices are about the size of half a pizza and start at five pounds; the decor is Instagram worthy; the music is always impeccable, and they offer a selection of delicious alcoholic slushies.
A couple of doors down is Ting Thai Caravan, which has an extensive menu of healthy, yet tasty Thai dishes for remarkable prices. It is one of the city’s hot spots, especially among students, so occasionally there is a queue outside. But it is absolutely worth the wait.
Fancy a free fringe at the Fringe? Yes this is no joke, as Bleach Please – a stylish city salon located on North Castle Street – are offering free fringe cuts throughout the festival. All you need to do is pop in.
Film Media and Journalism student at the University of Stirling. Editor in Chief at Brig Newspaper. Edinburgh / Stirling
