Edinburgh International Children’s Festival

The Edinburgh International Children’s Festival is a dedicated 9-day celebration of world-class theatre, dance, and performing arts for children and young people.

Presented by Imaginate, it brings together innovative productions from Scotland and around the world, aimed at ages from nursery to teens (and family audiences).

Expect a vibrant programme of live shows, storytelling, movement pieces, and interactive experiences that spark imagination and creativity.

Many events are family-friendly with relaxed performances available, plus free pop-ups (often starting at the National Museum of Scotland) and school-targeted sessions. It’s a welcoming, inclusive festival that highlights fresh talent and diverse stories—perfect for making Edinburgh a magical spot in early summer.

The full 2026 programme will be announced closer to the date, so sign up for updates on the official site for ticket releases and highlights.

Venues & Event Info

• Venue: Various locations across Edinburgh (including National Museum of Scotland, theatres like Traverse, Summerhall, and more)
• Ticket Info: Prices vary by show (typically £8–£15 for performances; many free events and concessions for families/groups). Book via official festival channels when available.
• Notes: Primarily aimed at children and families; check for age recommendations, accessibility (e.g., relaxed shows, BSL), and school booking options.

Dates/Times

30 May – 7 June 2026. Events run throughout the day and evening (times vary by performance; full schedule released in early 2026).