It may seem a slightly generic title for an article, but August sees Edinburgh if not transformed, then certainly flexing its muscles on a global stage.
The Athens of the North is inundated with performers, artists, visitors and tourists alike as it hosts the world’s biggest arts Festivals over the course of the month.
The Fringe is already under way, and is undoubtedly the most high-profile of those on at the time- those who have been here will be aware that there are myriad shows across every inch of the city from dawn til, well, dawn again to cover the tastes of anyone, with nearly three thousand shows over the month from close to fifty countries in nearly three hundred venues. There has been some (justifiable) criticism that a certain ruthless commercialism has encroached upon the Spirit of the Fringe, especially as much is dictated by major venues, and promoters. Undoubtedly this reflects the current boon in prime-time TV mediocrity from the major exponents, and those who aspire to it. That said, the number of free shows is growing again, and there remains a dizzying range of performers to seek out, with theatre, dance and much more besides the comedy which takes so many of the headlines, and there are more exceptional comedians to see here in a day than a year of TV viewing.
Elsewhere, the International Festival is the elder statesman in the Edinburgh firmament. Each year, it brings the very best of what some would describe as the best in higher-brow arts the world has to offer to the city, and this year’s line-up is no exception. Save for the (deservedly) renowned fireworks finale which ends the Festivals season, there is the usual exceptional opera, theatre, music and dance to engage and inspire.
In the West End, the International Book Festival is a veritable hub of activity, with talks, readings, signings and much more in their Charlotte Square home. It is also one of myriad places throughout the city which offer an amazing opportunity to spend time, and soak up the genuinely unique nature of Edinburgh in August.
For fashionistas as well as aesthetes, next week sees the launch of the new International Fashion Festival, with a showcase of stunning exhibitions and talks in the remarkable Summerhall venue and elsewhere across the city, while the Art festival continues to grow at a pace.
If the sensory barrage which Edinburgh August entails leaves you baffled beyond the prospect of a new hour of gags from a trusted favourite (and there are many beyond the banal), simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere is an experience in itself, and by day two you’ll be adept at avoiding leaflets, and ruthlessly blanking mononcycled juggling trustafarians as they career around the Old Town.
Whatever your age or team line-up, Edinburgh in August is an experience not to be missed.