October 2026

The 37th festival, themed “Bird and Beast”, is based at the Scottish Storytelling Centre on the Royal Mile, with events at the National Museum of Scotland and Edinburgh Zoo. A family programme starts from 10 October. Tickets via sisf.org.uk.

The Beltane Fire Society marks the Celtic new year on Calton Hill with drummers, costumed performers and a bonfire lit at about 7.45pm. Tickets are sold only through Citizen Ticket; all ticket types had sold out by early October, with a waiting list open.

City of Edinburgh schools are off this week. Family sights and day-trip trains are busier, so book ahead.

Through October the Botanics, Princes Street Gardens, the Meadows and the Water of Leith turn copper and gold.

Daylight saving ends: sunrise comes earlier but sunset falls around 4.40pm by the end of the month.

Many attractions move to winter hours in autumn. Look at each official site before you plan a late visit.