Unmissable events in Edinburgh this weekend (19–20 Sept)

Queensferry's annual folk festival returns for one packed evening of traditional and contemporary folk music featuring Findlay Napier, Wave of the Flood and Magnus Turpie & Friends in the historic Priory Church in South Queensferry. A great cultural outing combining live music with views over the Firth of Forth.

Kick off autumn at Scotland’s biggest Oktoberfest celebration, with Bavarian beers, bratwurst, live bands and DJs in a lively beer hall atmosphere at Brewhemia just off Princes Street. Ideal for groups of friends looking for a fun, themed night out in central Edinburgh.

Celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with an Asian-inspired makers’ market featuring local artists, crafts, street food and cultural activities. This daytime event is perfect for travellers wanting to discover Edinburgh’s creative community in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.

Explore rarely seen anatomical specimens and historic medical collections at the University of Edinburgh’s Anatomical Museum open day. This fascinating behind-the-scenes visit offers insight into the city’s scientific heritage and is suitable for curious adults and older children.

Set sail on the Firth of Forth aboard a themed pirate cruise, complete with costumed crew, stories and sea views of the bridges. This is a fun, hands-on outing for families that combines sightseeing with playful adventure on the water.

Dance the night away to Enjoy The Silence UK, a leading Depeche Mode tribute band, with additional support from synth outfit Synthedelica. Held in one of Edinburgh’s coolest underground venues, this gig is ideal for fans of 80s electronic music and alternative nightlife.

Irish slowcore band Dead Calm bring their atmospheric, immersive sound to La Belle Angèle for a one-off Edinburgh date. Expect intimate vibes and rich, cinematic songs in a classic Old Town gig space popular with local music fans.

Francis of Delirium, the indie rock project praised for its emotionally charged songwriting, plays a headline show at The Mash House. This is a great choice for travellers wanting to catch an up-and-coming international act in a compact, central venue.

Join a creative daytime workshop exploring how to build a scratch theatre company, moving work from page to performance. Hosted at the Traverse Theatre, it’s a stimulating option for culture lovers interested in theatre-making and Edinburgh’s performing arts scene.

Catch a work-in-progress performance of Waverley at the unique wooden amphitheatre of the Pianodrome in Bruntsfield. This intimate show blends live music and storytelling, offering a distinctive Edinburgh arts experience away from the main tourist routes.

Enjoy a glittering blend of live show tunes, brunch dishes and cocktails at this theatrical mid-day event. Broadway Brunch is ideal for groups who love musical theatre and want a lively, Instagram-friendly experience in the heart of Edinburgh.

Experience the high-energy sound of Poptastic Pipes, a contemporary twist on traditional Scottish bagpipes often paired with pop and rock covers. This performance adds a distinctly Scottish flavour to your weekend and works well combined with other Old Town sightseeing.

Shiver Me Timbers! brings pirate-themed entertainment and live music to an Edinburgh venue, perfect for anyone wanting a playful, costume-friendly evening. Expect sea shanties, humour and a relaxed party atmosphere.

Support the Hearts & Minds Clowndoctors charity with a night of stand-up hosted by Scottish comedian Chris Forbes. Held at The Stand, this show combines sharp local humour with a good cause, making it a memorable way to spend a Saturday evening.

Discover emerging LGBTQ+ stand-up talent at this Scottish heat of the New Comedian of the Year competition. Hosted at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, it’s a welcoming, central venue event that showcases fresh voices in comedy.