The Festival City

Edinburgh is the world's Festival capital, presenting an unforgettable mix of cultural experiences in an iconic and beautiful city. Edinburgh’s Festivals as a whole contribute £184 million to the Scottish Economy of which £170 directly accrues to Edinburgh and the Lothians (Economic Impact Report 2005. Another report is being commissioned in 2010). The Festivals and the vibrant cultural life they generate are a major factor in making Edinburgh one of the most attractive places in the UK to live, work, invest and visit.

As the world’s leading Festival City, Edinburgh – and vitally, its public bodies and administration - takes pride in its festivals and their quality, quantity and rich diversity. Experience and research have shown that it is the wonderfully cosmopolitan, colourful, open minded atmosphere of Edinburgh’s Festivals combined with the compact, historical beauty of the city itself that sit at the heart of the Edinburgh Festivals brand.

And more than ever it is in challenging times such as we are experiencing now that we are reminded of the importance of a flourishing festivals scene. The importance of Edinburgh’s Festivals as major draws for tourism, as major contributors to the quality of life in Edinburgh and as a uniquely appealing aspect of the city’s offer to businesses and their employees is a more recently recognised but hugely significant factor. The strength, vibrancy and international reputation of Edinburgh’s Festivals are a driver for the success and profile of the city and of Scotland.