Yes…it’s the most musical, colourful, magical parade of the year – Edinburgh’s flamboyant start to the festival season…the carnival parade. Hosted by the Jazz and Blues Festival – the weekend also features the Mardi Gras based in the Grassmarket and another family friendly event full of colour and sound !!

Mardi Gras – Saturday 13th July from 1pm

A taste of New Orleans in the historic heart of Edinburgh.

Non-stop entertainment and a party atmosphere as a host of bands perform on multiple stages bringing swing, dixieland, funk, soul gypsy jazz and brass band music to the heart of Edinburgh.

This year the line-up includes: Quattro MacJazz, Rianna Walcott Trio, Romacaleo, Harry Weir’s Brass Band and many more.

Edinburgh Festival Carnival – Sunday 14th July from 2pm

Princes Street and the gardens will play host to the Edinburgh Festival Carnival on the 14 July.

From the top of the Mound to the West End of Princes Street expect to see flamboyant outfits and world class music from over 800 Carnival Performers as the streets are transformed into a party atmosphere.

Music, dance, costumes, circus, acrobatics from all over the world.

From 3 – 4.30pm the sounds of the world will beat from the stage of the Ross Bandstand in Princes Street Gardens; and from 3.30pm-5pm, we have dance, music, circus, and street arts, plus a special kids area. Come for the colour, spectacle, sounds and electric atmosphere.