Top Six Shows for the even bigger little ones 2026 !

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So, I am well and truly beyond the little people stage, with two fully formed teenagers in my house and one leaving home in under a month (Gulp!) ! That means we’re very much up for exploring all that is on offer for older children/teens – much of the circus, magic, dance, music works for all ages and we’re keen to add some theatre into the mix too if anyone has some recommendations or a show you’re bringing up works for a teenage audience ?

See below for our top six shows for this age group, but like I say, its new territory, so always keen to hear ideas…

YUCK Circus: Naughties – We are HUGE fans of YUCK circus over here and are VERY excited to see their new show. Even more so as it features one of the greatest musical decades ever !! (in my very humble opinion that is !)…Fringe-favourites YUCK Circus are back with a totally bitchin’ brand-new show! Backstreet Boys, Britney, and BIG throwback energy. A decade not to be forgotten – with Furbies, flip phones and evERythinG TyPeD LiKe ThIs. Mix that with high-flying acrobatics, comedy and absolute bangers, iconic! Age 16 +

Fungasm: Save or Smash – I’m not sure I can even describe this show which we have come to love after seeing them at Kelburn Garden Party Festival over the years – it’s fun on a different level, chaotically ridiculous and very easy to get hooked. What’s your name, and what’s your game? Go to pieces over this crackpot quiz placing porcelain under the hammer! Decide the fate of a delicate pottery item: the crown jewel of your crockery set or total obliteration. Taskmaster meets Shooting Stars meets Antiques Roadshow. Contestants could be walking home with a snazzy teapot, commemorative plate or delicate figurine – but only one lucky soul is destined for the Bonanza Digital Experience. Expect absurd challenges, questionable judgement, and dramatic decisions from you, the audience. Participation optional. Age 12+

Suitcase Show and The Bookbinder – Again, keen readers of this blog will know we LOVE Trick of the Light Theatre and we will gobble up anything they bring to the festival, this year we get two beloved shows ! We’ve loved them all, their storytelling is compelling, the sets so unique and intricate and their imaginations ever expansive…I’ve just heard it will be the 500th performance of The Bookbinder here in Edinburgh this year – please don’t miss it..

Suitcase Show –A traveller arrives at a border with a stack of battered cases. From within them, whole worlds will emerge… Trick of the Light presents an eclectic box set of short stories. Dark, spiky and comic, it shifts from shadow play to storytelling, dancing disembodied hands to narratives crackling from a 1970s stereo suitcase. Age 12+

The Bookbinder –They say you can get lost in a good book. But it’s worse to get lost in a bad one… An old man sits down to read the tale of an erstwhile bookbinding apprentice. As he speaks the story spills from the pages and into the bindery. Marking its 500th performance, The Bookbinder returns to Assembly, weaving shadowplay, paper-art, puppetry and music into a captivating dark fairytale. Age 8+

FUCCBOIS: LIVE IN CONCERT – This looks interesting and potentially a lot of fun, I like the House of Oz programming, so am hoping this is a winner ! FUCCBOIS: LIVE IN CONCERT is a massive comedy-boyband-extravaganza: an irreverent satire of toxic dating culture and, most importantly, the music is banging Age 14+

I Made You A Mixtape -Maybe it’s because we loved All Fired up: An 80s mixtape last year so much, but this show sounds super fun and could be one of those unexpectedly joyous fun filled shows that leave you wanting more… Welcome to the party you always wished you were invited to. Step into the heart of a 90s college dorm hang, complete with live musicians and the greatest hits of the decade. Nine girls arrive for one last night together before their lives change forever. With each track played, we get a new glimpse into their world; through impromptu music videos, deep female friendships, and unfiltered emotion by the bucketload. This isn’t your typical dance show – it changes every night, with the girls’ fates being revealed to them, and you, in real time. Age 14+

The Tom Brace Magic Hour – Another favourite here; we love Tom Brace and his combination of tricks and charm is yet to be beaten ! Bringing another new show to the festival this year, we’re looking forward to being bamboozled once again ! Live from Edinburgh. It’s The Tom Brace Magic Hour. Prepare to have your minds read, your jaws dropped and potentially your hearts broken (wink) by ‘one of the most original, brilliant and wonderfully funny magicians I’ve ever seen’ (Nick Mohammed, Ted Lasso). Back for his 10th year, Tom Brace is bringing his biggest show yet.  Age 12+

We also have firm favourites returning from last year that we’d love to give a special shout out to :

Top Five Shows for the even littler little ones 2026

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The number of children’s shows at Edinburgh festival seems to be ever increasing, with even more opportunities to introduce even the littlest of little ones to the joys of live theatre and interactive productions…shows catered to very young audiences can be some of the most memorable, with beautiful colourful sets, costumes, interactive moments and lots of creativity !

Here are our top five picks for this year for those under five…

Float – This is an intriguing idea from Starcatchers who make beautiful things for small people and one that could work really well for those folk with babies aged 0-12 months – a longer interactive performance which you can come and go from as you need/feel – Float invites you to relax with your baby and enjoy a gently interactive performance inspired by the healing powers of water. You and your baby are free to explore, engage with the performers or unwind in Float’s tranquil space. Float is a three-hour durational performance designed to relieve the pressure of time. Your ticket allows you to come and go during this time to suit the needs of you and your baby. Age 0-12 months

FoRT – Exploring the joy of building forts and making imaginative spaces, this looks super cute and creative for wee ones. FoRT: A multi award-winning show inspired by the timeless craft of turning living rooms upside down. Watch and be amazed as everyday objects transform into fantastical places to play and explore using ridiculous clowning, spectacular acrobatics and beautiful visual imagery. This is an inspiring and delightful new theatrical experience that you and the whole family will enjoy. Age 3 years +

Hello Beach – Our mini-reviewer enjoyed Hello Birds last year, so we’re looking forward to this production and seeing Bran and Tor again…. Following the hugely successful Hello Birds in 2025, Bran and Tor are back and joined by new friend Piper for a day out at the beach. Who will we meet on our seaside picnic? An interactive multi-sensory storytelling show for 0-2 years, featuring puppetry, singing and key-word signing.  Age 0-2 years

Tweedy’s Massive Solo Show – We loved Tweedy two years ago and are very excited for this new solo show !! Following the success of Tweedy’s Massive Circus, Tweedy the Clown makes his festival debut with this joyful solo show for all ages. Tweedy finds himself battling mischievous props in a series of increasingly absurd situations, but however chaotic things become Tweedy can always find a creative way to get out…Age 0+

Splash Test Dummies – We LOVE the Dummies !!!! And are super happy this splashtastic show is back…Rub-a-dub-dub, The Dummies are back with their ‘splashingly awesome adventure’ (EdinburghFestivalsForKids.com) set to drown you in tears of laughter. Splash Test Dummies are here, ready to roll out their beach towels and spring into an hour of circus-filled hilarity for the whole family. See a brilliant array of catch-your-breath stunt work, acrobatics, juggling and the side-splitting, slapstick comedy for which the dummies are famous. Age 0+

We also have firm favourites returning from last year that we’d love to give a special shout out to :

My Top Ten Children’s Shows at Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2026

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Oh my goodness, time is whizzing by and here we are, prepping for another Edinburgh festival in only a few weeks time and I always have great intentions of compiling this list earlier and life seems to just have that habit of getting in the way ! The festival is starting a week later this year, on the 7th August so in only a few weeks we’ll be immersed in all the incredible things it has to offer…so still plenty of time to get prepped…

As always, it is so difficult to whittle down all the amazing children’s shows on offer into a top recommendations list – this year there are almost 150 children’s shows to choose from, and that’s not counting all the fantastic circus, magic, cabaret and music on offer too !! You can check them all out here ..

We have got some firm favourites returning, and I’ll be doing a separate top picks of shows for younger children, and once again for older kids/teens as my own family changes along the years…I am sure I will miss something new or exciting or unique – so please do get in touch with your own recommendations too ! I love discovering all that is on offer for the younger (and young-ish) audiences at the festival.

So, for 2026, our top recommendations are :

The Listies: 110% Ready – Dearest reader, if you are atall familiar with this blog, you will know that we are HUGE fans of The Listies and have been loving their shows at the fringe for around 10 years now and we will certainly not be missing out this year. The Listies have a unique ability to effortlessly entertain both adults and children and the giggling literally does not stop. My cheeks always ache from laughing after seeing this madcap duo. The Listies return with 110% Ready – a comedy disaster movie about the morning routine. Rich is determined to do the impossible: leave the house on time! Matt, however has other ideas. Expect a poop-load of puns, slapstick, a splash of improvisational idiocy and the Snot Ness Monster!  Age 4+

The Elves and the Shoemaker – We first saw this back in 2012, when my children were much smaller…and I still remember it to this day which is the sign of a very great show ! Theatre of Widdershins make incredible puppets and intimate sets which are intricate and versatile and the storytelling weaves it all together brilliantly. Beautifully crafted set and puppets, sublime music, a kaleidoscope of miniature shoes and a comic mouse make this show a magical must-see. Suitable for all ages and shoe sizes. Age 3 +

Showstopper! The Kids Show – This is another favourite of ours which is happily returning this year. You can imagine that asking an audience of children for the theme and characters for an improvised musical show has some pretty creative outcomes…and that’s the highlight of this show, which is never the same twice ! If your children could create their very own dream musical, where would they start? The Showstoppers turn your kids’ ideas into marvellous, mischievous adventures from scratch, in front of their noses. Kids decide where the story’s set, who the characters are and what happens next – and there’s lots of chances to join in! Age 5 +

The Truth About Trees – This looks like a cute little show with an appropriate environmental angle, in an intimate venue which may suit a younger audience better. When Alfie’s Grandpa reveals that paper, if made correctly, can tell the story of the tree it came from, Alfie isn’t sure whether to believe him. Once he starts to listen closely, Alfie realises that he is the only one listening. He must spring into action to save the trees from being chopped down. Told using actors, puppets and shadows, The Truth About Trees is a heartwarming story about nature, stories and standing up for what you believe in. Age 5 +

Hugo’s Rainbow Show – Now this looks very lovely indeed and something a little different to bring the kids along to…A drag show for kids about the science of rainbows! Join New Zealand superstar Hugo Grrrl for a musical, magical adventure exploring the skies above. Can you help find Ray The Sun, Misty The Cloud and Wayne The Rain? Maybe even the fabulous Archie The Rainbow?! Together our weathery friends make the mysteries of meteorology fun, all while proving the power of glitter, dress-ups and friendship through original songs, stories and – of course – outrageous costumes. Best for 2-10 year olds and neurodiverse friends, but even big kids will love this wholesome, goofy and glamorous experience. Ages 2- 10

Boys Don’t Dance – This was in Edinburgh as part of the imaginate and it looks really great and inspiring – Boys Don’t Dance is a poignant dance theatre show by acclaimed disabled artist Marc Brew, reflecting on his lifelong journey defying societal expectations to embrace his love for dance. Combining movement with BMX and wheels, storytelling, lighting and an uplifting 80s soundtrack – alongside visual projections and animation, creating an immersive experience for audiences. Boys Don’t Dance celebrates individuality and the liberating power of dance, encouraging audiences to embrace their unique passions and find strength in their differences.  Age 8 +

The Mystery of Pleasance Two – Immersive and mysterious – this looks great ! Kids love something interactive and this looks like its got a sprinkling of everything – and who doesn’t love a good whodunnit?…Calling all trainee detectives! Join us for The Mystery of Pleasance Two, an award-winning, board game style theatre show where your skills are needed to solve this thrilling murder mystery. Team up with super sleuth Danyah Miller to navigate through secrets and surprises. We’ll examine evidence, inspect video footage and interrogate suspects, every clue bringing us closer to the truth. Can we crack the case together? Expect intrigue, mischief, spontaneity and a sprinkle of magic. Get involved… get it solved! Age 8 +

Anatomy of the Piano (for beginners) – Now, I’m biased as I LOVE this venue – the Pianodrome is incredible and really needs to be experienced to see how enchanting it is, created entirely out of old abandoned pianos, all set in a round beautiful immersive space. So this is the ideal opportunity – take in a great kids show at the same time and see the magic of the Pianodrome ! A boy asks for a spaceship but gets a piano. The award-winning show of playful piano dissection, virtuosity and storytelling, featuring Bach’s wig, Beethoven’s moods and jamming with Fats Waller. Age 5+

Mark Watson Tries to Impress Children, for Some Reason – I have no idea what this will be like, but it’s brave to venture into doing a kids show, so let’s see what happens ! Mark Watson has done almost everything in comedy: awards, worldwide festivals, Taskmaster, other TV, radio, you name it. But not a kids’ show. Not until now. Is this wise? Age 5+

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Ten Thousand Hours – Gravity and Other Myths are bringing this well loved show back to the fringe again this year, and I know we’ve picked it as a top choice before, but we really do love it ! My son watched it, and as soon as it finished said, can we watch it all again please ? One hour just isn’t enough really for this one, I felt like I could watch the performers for far longer as they achieve incredible feats and playfully interact with each other. an ode to the countless hours of sweat and joy needed to achieve great things. Age 5 +

We also have firm favourites returning from last year that we’d love to give a special shout out to :

Fiona Hunter -Relaxed Performance at Edinburgh’s Tradfest 2026

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This was a new one for us here, we’ve never been to Edinburgh’s Tradfest before, and it’s also new for them, to put on child friendly gigs…so we were very excited to get along and check this gig out led by award-winning singer Fiona Hunter (Malinky) and joined by Ali Patterson (Skippinish) on keyboards and Pablo Lafuente (Project Smok) on guitar. 

Family fun levelled up at Fiona Hunter’s relaxed performance. 

Me and boyo (16 months) were a bit intimidated when we first entered Traverse 1 on a Sunday afternoon, with steeply raked seats and the stage set up for a concert, but as soon as Fiona, Ali and Pablo entered with bags of props they made us feel right at home, inviting us all to get up close on stage and join in (an instruction that the under 5s who made up about half of the audience didn’t need telling twice- if only adults were so keen to participate). Bouncy snowballs, floaty scarves and animal hats were all pulled into action, and Fiona had a great way with the kids, it really did feel relaxed as she sang a mix of trad lullabies and Scots nursery rhymes. For the adults, it was Fiona’s voice that made it something more than just a singalong. And actually, although boyo had just woken up from a nap and was in no mood for joining in, he was very happy to cuddle up and listen to the beautiful songs and tunes too.

Would absolutely recommend for under 5s and their adults. 

(Written by Debs Hahn )

Square Cinema is back : 12th -14th June 2026

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Edinburgh’s much-loved free outdoor movie weekend returns to St Andrew Square Garden for the 15th year this June, bringing three days of big-screen entertainment to the heart of the city in one of the UK’s biggest free outdoor cinema events.

For the full programme click here .

Friday is Swayze-night with cult-classic The Outsiders up first, swiftly followed by one of the most requested movies – Dirty Dancing, and bringing the curtain down on day one is a 35th anniversary screening of Point Break.  

Family audiences are in for a treat over the weekend with daytime screenings including Zootropolis 2, The Adventures of Tintin, Wicked: For Good, Labyrinth, and two live action remakes from 2025 of much-loved animated films Lilo & Stitch, and How To Train Your Dragon.

Later in the day, the programme shifts to Hollywood blockbusters and cult classics including Back to the Future, F1 – The Movie, multi-Oscar winner One Battle After Another, and a 15th anniversary screening of Bridesmaids, all shown in a relaxed, picnic-style setting.

And it is absolutely FREE! What’s not to like?