Not only are the Botanics a great place to spend a day, wandering through all the beautiful gardens, watching for squirrels and feeding the ducks – but they are also providing lots of great events and activities during the summer/festival period and most of them are free….

Festival Colombiano – Celebrate the amazingly diverse plant life of Colombia and learn about the country’s culture. A fantastic mix of music and dance, food, children’s activities and a strong message about the stunning biodiversity of Colombia and why Edinburgh Botanics are working in this precious land. The daytime events include making beautiful jewellery from seeds, great music from Khantara, dance and helping to create a Paramo mural….Age 5+     Sat 3rd and Sun 4th August 13.00 – 16.00pm and its free !

The Little Fawn Caravan Theatre -This mini theatre space will host a repertoire of puppet shows. There will also be simple nature-themed shadow puppet making workshops available. Times vary depending on days, so check first. From Wed 7th August – Wed 21st August . For age 5+  (£5/£3)

Circus Cavalcade – Young people from all across the UK present a range of circus skills in their first performance at the Fringe. Plus join in the fun at a pre-show circus workshop for the family at 11.00am .Ages 1+. From 8th – 10th August everyday 12.30 – 13.15 and its free.

Blue Lotus : Summer – Combining contemporary and classical Indian dance, classical music and elements of audience participation, Blue Lotus: Summer explores the connection between Indian dance and the natural environment, reflecting the changing seasons. This dance performance is for all ages and on from 16th – 18th August everyday 16.00 – 16.45 and its free.

About Circus – Celebrating its 30th anniversary and 18 years at the Fringe, this circus will bring music, magic and mayhem performed by young people. From 18th – 26th August every day at 13.00 – 13.45pm and again its free.

Lots and lots of good stuff to be exploring at the Botanics…..