Edinburgh Festival Fringe begins with more than 3,500 shows on offer

One of Scotland’s most anticipated arts festivals has launched, with more than 3,500 shows planned across the month.

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe officially launched on Friday and will run until August 26, with artists from 58 countries set to perform.

There are 3,663 shows confirmed – up 346 from the 3,317 shows shown on the festival’s printed programme.

A total of 686 events have a “pay what you can” model and there are 456 free shows.

A performer outside the Edinburgh Festival Fringe shop during last year’s festival (Jane Barlow/PA)

Shona McCarthy, chief executive of Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society, said: “After months of planning by a cast of thousands, I am absolutely thrilled to welcome everyone to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2024.

“I want to say a massive thank you to everyone who has worked so hard to get to this point, including artists, venues, producers, promoters, staff and too many more to mention. Now it’s time to enjoy this amazing festival you’ve created.”

“The Fringe Society exists to support the artists, media and arts industry taking part in the Fringe. Our team will be at Fringe Central throughout August with on-the-ground support, advice and a fantastic programme of events for all participants.

“Now it’s over to the Fringe audience, please get ready to Unleash Your Fringe and experience work from established names or first-time and emerging performers. The best way to support artists over the coming weeks is to go and see shows.”

The Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) also launched on Friday, also running until August 25. It features more than 160 performers.