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:
2019 Report and Financial Statements for year ended 31 Oct 2019
2018 Report and Financial Statements for year ended 31 Oct 2018