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 :
edinburghfestivalsforkids 