The Fringe is back in the capital! After missing out on a full festival as a result of the pandemic, Edinburgh is gearing up to welcome the world again. 

Dating back to 1947, the Fringe has entertained us for decades while celebrating the best that art and culture has to offer. 

For three chock-full weeks, Edinburgh will play host to tourists, locals, performers and producers from across the globe to present new shows, delight audiences and discover shining new talent.

Here's when the Fringe kicks off, how to access the 2022 programme and how to get your tickets. 

The National: Crowds on Edinburgh's Royal Mile. Credit: Jane Barlow/PACrowds on Edinburgh's Royal Mile. Credit: Jane Barlow/PA

When does the Edinburgh Festival Fringe start? 2022 dates

The Fringe runs in Edinburgh for three weeks during August. 

It officially starts on Friday, August 5 and will continue until Monday, August 29 2022.

This year, the Festival Fringe is celebrating its 75th anniversary.

Edinburgh Fringe 2022 programme

Just like in previous years, festival goers will be able to enjoy a jam-packed programme of comedy to musicals with everything in between.

When planning your visit to the Fringe, you can search shows by category to make it easier to find one to your taste. 

The categories include: 

  • Cabaret and variety
  • Children's shows
  • Comedy
  • Dance, Physical Theatre and Circus
  • Events
  • Exhibitions
  • Music
  • Musicals and Opera
  • Spoken Word
  • Theatre

This year, you will also be able to enjoy shows in person and online which you can view via the Edinburgh Fringe website.

There is also an official paper programme which features all the events that are happening during the three weeks.

Although the special edition, created for the 75th anniversary, is completely sold out, you can still purchase a standard copy here.

Alternatively, you can pick it up from the Fringe shop or various locations across the UK which you can find on the Fringe website.

Edinburgh Fringe 2022 street events

Whether you are a Fringe veteran or a newbie, you will have likely heard how the capital's historic streets are transformed during the festival.

The festival's street events are proudly open access which means the organisers try to remove as many barriers as possible for performers and audiences.

The Fringe also does not charge performers fees to participate and the event is free for the public, although donations to the performers are encouraged.

Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2022 tickets

There are several ways that festival goers can book tickets to see the Fringe shows on their bucket list. 

You can book shows online at any time by browsing the listings on the website.

Alternatively, you can phone the Box Office during its opening hours by phoning +44 (0)131 226 0000.

Visitors can also book tickets at the Box Office (next to the Fringe shop) in person.

The Box Office opening hours are as followings:

  • 20 June – 17 July (Monday – Friday) 10:00 - 18:00
  • 18 – 31 July (Monday – Saturday) 10:00 - 18:00
  • 01 – 29 August (daily) 10:00 - 18:00

For visiting in person, here is the address for your Google Maps: Old Assembly Close, High Street, EH1 1QS

The festival fun doesn't end there with bargains to be had at the Half Price Hut at the Fringe Box Office which is where you can find Fringe deals on the day.

All of the Fringe tickets are E-tickets so there is no need to collect physical tickets this year.

Once you've booked your tickets, you’ll then receive a confirmation email which contains a QR code which acts as your ticket.

For more information, answers to Frequently Answered Questions and to book your tickets, visit the Edinburgh Festival Fringe website.