Things to do in Scotland in August

Edinburgh is full…Edinburgh International Festival, Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Edinburgh Arts Festival…the list goes on! Come to Edinburgh and go wild, then disappear off to the outer reaches of Scotland in a campervan and relax or enjoy one of a multitude of other festivals and sporting events taking place around Scotland this month.

Things to do in Scotland in August Edinburgh fringe festival

Cultural Events in Scotland in August 2026

Edinburgh Festivals

Edinburgh International Festival, the original festival celebrates the best of opera, theatre, dance and classical music and attracts thousands from around the globe. This year it will take place from the 7th to 30th August. Alongside the Edinburgh International Festival is the Edinburgh Fringe. It returns in 2026 between 7th and the 31st August. A rich and diverse selection of theatre, music, dance and comedy as well as a full programme for children and late night selections for those hardy enough to keep going. This year Edinburgh Art Festival runs events celebrating the visual arts throughout the city from 14th to the 30th August. The majority of the events are free.

Each August, the Edinburgh International Film Festival invites cinema lovers from around the world to experience the very best in film culture and storytelling. The 79th edition runs from 13th to 19th August 2026, showcasing new talent, bold storytelling and international cinema across a packed programme of screenings, premieres, discussions and industry events that appeal to both passionate film fans and industry professionals.

The Edinburgh International Book Festival turns the city into a global literary hub every August, bringing together leading authors, thinkers and readers to share ideas, stories and conversations. In 2026, the festival runs from 15th to 30th August 2026. It will feature discussions, readings, workshops and debates designed to spark curiosity, celebrate the written word and connect audiences with both established voices and exciting new talent from around the world.

The world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo brings together music, skill and pageantry to celebrate military tradition against the backdrop of the iconic Edinburgh Castle each August. Running from 7th to 29th August 2026, this spectacular performance blends the stirring sounds of massed pipes and drums with dazzling choreography, dance and dazzling lighting against the dramatic backdrop of the castle. From crowd-pleasing displays of military bands to breathtaking precision drill and nightly fireworks, the Tattoo is a must-see highlight of the Edinburgh festival season that draws audiences from across the globe. A tradition that stretches back to 1950, the Tattoo has grown into one of Scotland’s most famous and beloved cultural events and now showcases performers from around the world. 

Islay Book Festival

Community-led Islay Book Festival will take place from 27th – 30th August against the stunning backdrop of this island, famous for its whisky. This volunteer-run festival originally started as a book club! Events and participating authors tend to be announced on Facebook first so follow the Islay Book Festival Facebook page to keep abreast of the latest event details.

Things to do in Scotland in August Islay Book Festival

The Cowal Highland Gathering is the world’s largest Highland Games. It takes place in Dunoon, Argyll from 27th-29th August and attracts world class competitors from across the globe for dancing, piping, heavy events, athletics and shinty. Thousands flock to the Highlands each year for this spectacular event.

THings to do in Scotland in August

Piping Championships

Glasgow Green plays host to the World Championships for pipe bands in 2026 – awaiting confirmation of dates.

Things to do in Scotland in August Pipers

Big Sky Campers Campervans for Hire

Scotland

There’s no shortage of things to do in Scotland in August. Stay in the city for the festivals and then hire one of our all inclusive vans for some rest and relaxation in the Highlands or Islands. All our campervans for hire near Edinburgh come fully equipped with everything you will need for campervanning in Scotland. Everything is included in the price with the exception of a portaloo that you can add to your booking at a small additional charge. We have three different VW automatic campervans for hire – Highlines T6.1s, brand new T7’s with solar or our top of the range deluxe off-grid VW Crafters.

Got a question? Give us a call.

+44 (0)7768 973804

Call Big Sky Campers Campervan Hire Edinburgh

Or send us a mail