The Edinburgh International Festival was the inspired idea of Rudolf Bing, then the General Manager of Glyndebourne Opera, Henry Harvey Wood, the Head of the British Council in Scotland, and leaders from the City of Edinburgh. It was established in 1947 as a world class cultural event to bring together audiences and artists from around the world.

Who we are

The International Festival is about the people who come together here in Edinburgh to create incredible experiences. Together we are a state of the art, world class cultural event which over its 70 years has gone from strength to strength.

As such a vibrant, innovative, energetic organisation, the International Festival contributes to many aspects of life, be it cultural and economic, education and society and enhances the lives of people not just in Edinburgh and Scotland, but around the world.

We exist to:

Present a wide range of performances from the world’s leading artists to the widest possible audience
Offer affordable international culture to audiences from Scotland, the rest of the UK and the world
Offer an international showcase for Scotland’s rich culture
Present innovative performances and programming and a commitment to new work
Actively welcome and make it possible for all sections of the Scottish and wider public to experience and enjoy the International Festival
Encourage everyone to participate in the arts throughout the year