The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Why?

For starters, it takes place against the backdrop of the floodlit Edinburgh Castle - talk about dramatic! Almost 1,000 musicians, pipers, drummers, singers and dancers perform at the Edinburgh Tattoo on the Esplanade. Each year you can expect stirring performances of the Massed Pipes and Drums and the Massed Military Bands that emerge from the huge castle gates, playing the inspiring battle tunes of Scotland's famed regiments.

What is the story behind it?

It began in 1950, inspired by traditional army displays and named after the 17th-century Dutch phrase “doe den tap toe”, a signal for soldiers to return to barracks. From a modest start with a few performances, it’s grown into a world-famous spectacle, featuring international acts and watched by millions. In 2010, it was granted Royal status by the late Queen Elizabeth II, cementing its place as a proud symbol of Scottish pageantry and culture.

When does it take place?

7 - 29 August 2026

A cast of hundreds

Almost1,000 musicians, pipers, drummers, singers and dancers perform at the Edinburgh Tattoo on the Esplanade.

Tradition and spectacle

Each year you can expect stirring performances of the Massed Pipes and Drums and the Massed Military Bands that emerge from the huge castle gates, playing the inspiring battle tunes of Scotland's famed regiments.

International flavour

Add to this the spectacular displays from the many overseas performers who bring music, action and colour to the event in Edinburgh and you have a winning blend that always keeps the Tattoo fresh, exciting and alive, even for the many faithful fans who return here every year.

An exciting finish

This unforgettable event is brought to an emotional and poignant close each evening as a lone piper, spotlit high on the castle ramparts, plays a haunting lament. Fireworks, a mass chorus of Auld Lang Syne from the audience and the roar of jets from a military flypast bring the curtain down on a truly memorable night's entertainment. There's nothing like actually being there to witness it live -  make sure you're there!

Don't miss out!

There are 217,000 Tattoo tickets each year for the three-week season, but they often get snapped up quickly.

Get your tickets now