If you have ever dreamed of exploring ancient castles, some of which date all the way back to the 5th century, then you simply must visit Edinburgh, Scotland.
The capital city of Edinburgh is located in the south-east of Scotland near the North Sea, and is the second largest city in the country. Its combination of rugged sea swept landscape, along with impressive Medieval and Gregorian architecture, and even two extinct volcanoes right within the city make it commonly known as one of the most picturesque cities in all of Europe.
Known as the “Athens of the North”, it is certainly one of the most beautiful capitals in Europe.
Despite its big and plentiful attractions, Edinburgh itself is not a very large city. In fact, it is one of Europe’s smallest capitals with a population of about 500,000 people. There is one time of year, however, when the number of people in Edinburgh literally doubles. This is during the month of August when the Edinburgh Festivals take place.
The name “Edinburgh Festivals” is a blanket term that is used to describe the explosion of culture and activity that takes place every August. In fact, the event is comprised of a great number of festivals and events that take place.
The first festival that you’ll want to enjoy is the International Festival. For 2010, this festival is scheduled to take place from August 13 to September 5. The International Festival first began in 1947 after the conclusion of WWII with the intent of reviving and breathing new life and color into the human spirit.
Each year, Edinburgh’s six major theatres and concert halls as well as smaller venues come alive with the best classical music, theatre, opera, dance and visual art from around the globe. The festival itself is a registered charity and a non-for-profit event.
To see a review of the 2009 International Festival in Edinburgh, click here: http://www.eif.co.uk/files/editor/documents/EIF%20Annual%20Review%202009.pdf
Another festival that draws a crowd of excited attendees every year is the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Festival. This year, the festival will take place from August 6 to August 28. It promises to be particularly spectacular because this year the festival is celebrating its 60th year.
The Military Tattoo Festival takes place against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, which is Edinburgh’s most popular tourist attraction. Events include pipers, gymnasts, singers, dancers and an amazing motorcycle display team, all of which come to Edinburgh from four different continents.
Two of the festival’s most popular items are the music of the Massed Pipes and Drums and that of the Massed Military Bands. You can also take in the music of the South African Irish Regiment, along with the South Australian Pipes and Drums and the prestigious Military Band of the Coldstream Guards. You’ll even see the Citadel Band from Charleston, South Carolina.
For more information and some photos, click on this link: http://www.edintattoo.co.uk/about-the-tattoo/the-visitor-experience
Among the other festivals that take place during this time of year in Edinburgh are the Fringe Festival, which is the biggest arts festival in the world; the Edinburgh Book Festival, an international celebration of the written word; the Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival; and the Edinburgh Mela, a culture and sport celebration.
No doubt, one of these has sparked your interest! For more information about these festivals in 2010, use the links below.
http://www.edfringe.com/
http://www.edbookfest.co.uk/
http://www.edinburghjazzfestival.co.uk/index.php?pageID=157
http://www.edinburgh-mela.co.uk/
And to visit the festivals with DeluxeKosherTours.com, see the Ireland and Scotland itinerary.
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