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13 things not to miss this March in Edinburgh
As spring gets underway, there are some fantastic events coming out of hibernation in the Scottish capital
No matter what time of year it is, there is always plenty to see and do in Edinburgh. From the historic cobbled streets of the Old Town to the hustle and bustle of Princes Street, you can never be bored in the Scottish capital.
But it seems that as we finally say goodbye to the cold and dark winter days, there is even more on offer in Edinburgh than usual. March is chockfull of exciting exhibitions, thrilling events and unmissable shows. However you like to spend your time in the city, there is sure to be something to suit your interests.
So to ensure you don’t miss out on any of these incredible opportunities in Scotland’s most famous city, we have created this essential guide to help put a spring in your step this month. Here are 13 events to liven up your March and make you appreciate Edinburgh in all kinds of new and exciting ways.
Edinburgh Lumen
When? 1st March 2018 – 11th March 2018
Where? Various locations, including St Andrew Square, Mound Precinct, Assembly Rooms Lane
How much? Free
What can you expect?
March marks your last chance to experience the stunning visual displays of Edinburgh Lumen, which have been lighting up the nights in the capital since 8th February. There are three unique installations which are transforming their surroundings with immersive light and sound displays, creating portals of tranquillity in the busy city centre.
Splendours of the Subcontinent: A Prince’s Tour of India 1875-6
When? 1st March 2018 – 22nd April 2018
Where? The Queen’s Gallery, Palace of Holyrood
How much? £7.00 for adults
What can you expect?
This March, Edinburgh is home to some of the finest Indian treasures from the Royal Collection, gifted to the Prince of Wales (and future King Edward VII) on his grand tour of the Subcontinent in 1875-6. He visited over 21 regions, travelled 10,000 miles and met over 90 different rulers, and this is all reflected in the beautiful collection of jewellery, gold and ceremonial arms.
Our Story
When? 1st March 2018 – 23rd April 2018
Where? Museum of Edinburgh
How much? Free
What can you expect?
Our Story is an exhibition celebrating Edinburgh’s diverse communities, aiming to raise knowledge of the many different religious groups which exist within the capital today. It was co-ordinated by the Edinburgh Inter-Faith Association (EIFA) and is presented through a series of stunning photographs by local photographers.
Edinburgh’s 101 Objects
When? 1st March 2018 – 30th April 2018
Where? Various Locations
How much? Free
What can you expect?
2017 was Scotland’s Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology, and this event is a true celebration of the vast history and culture found in the country’s capital city. 101 Objects tells the story of Edinburgh, Scotland and the world in 101 objects located across the capital. Participants can explore the objects online and read their stories, or you can aim to visit them all in person. This is a great way to get to know the city better.
Hidden Gems
When? 1st March 2018 – 13th May 2018
Where? City Art Centre
How much? Free
What can you expect?
The City Art Centre is home to almost 5,000 beautiful pieces of fine art, but whilst some of them are much-loved favourites, others have rarely been seen by the public eye. This Hidden Gems exhibition gives viewers the chance to appreciate these lesser known works in all their glory.
Blood Brothers
When? 5th March 2018 – 10th March 2018
Where? Edinburgh Playhouse
How much? Tickets from £17.90
What can you expect?
The first of several amazing shows coming to the Edinburgh Playhouse this March is Blood Brothers. This iconic musical tells the story of twins who are separated at birth and lead very different lives, only to meet again. It’s a show full of fantastic acting and massive, emotionally charged musical numbers.
Meats and Beats
When? 9th March 2018 – 10th March 2018
Where? Summerhall
How much? Tickets from £8.00
What can you expect?
Meats and Beats is an exciting festival experience which celebrates — you guessed it — great music and delicious meaty food. After a successful inaugural festival last year, this year the experience is set to be even bigger and better.
Mother’s Day
When? 11th March 2018
Where? Various locations across Edinburgh
How much? Prices vary depending on which event you visit
What can you expect?
There’s nowhere better to treat your mother this year than the Scottish capital. From an afternoon on the Royal Yacht Britannia to half price cocktails at Kaleidoscope Bar, there are endless opportunities to show your mum how much you love her.
Hairspray
When? 12th March 2018 – 16th March 2018
Where? Edinburgh Playhouse
How much? Tickets from £20.00
What can you expect?
If Blood Brothers whetted your appetite for more musical extravaganza, make sure you don’t miss the smash hit musical comedy Hairspray. Set in Baltimore in 1962, the charming story of big haired, big dreaming Tracy Turnblad is sure to melt your heart and get you dancing.
The Russian State Ballet of Siberia
When? 20th March 2018 – 23rd March 2018
Where? Edinburgh Playhouse
How much? Tickets from £13.90
What can you expect?
The Edinburgh Playhouse is really pulling out all the stops this month, completing their strong line up of incredible shows with a variety of stunning performances from the Russian State Ballet of Siberia. These include Romeo and Juliet on 20th March, Cinderella on 21st March, The Snow Maiden on 22nd March and Swan Lake on 23rd March.
Edinburgh International Harp Festival
When? 30th March 2018 – 4th April 2018
Where? Merchiston Castle School
How much? Prices vary depending on whether you book concerts, courses or workshops
What can you expect?
The Edinburgh International Harp Festival brings together world class performances, a growing community and the chance to learn new skills yourself. You can expect beautiful performances, fresh talent, workshops and courses. This annual event has cemented Edinburgh as a global centre of harping.
Musselburgh Racecourse Easter Saturday Raceday
When? 31st March 2018
Where? Musselburgh Racecourse
How much? Tickets from £20.00
What can you expect?
This is only the second year of the Musselburgh Racecourse Easter Saturday Raceday, but already it’s becoming a staple in the capital. The day has something for everyone, from exciting racing to live music, fairground rides and games. You can also refuel with delicious food and drinks.
Edinburgh International Science Festival
When? 31st March 2018 – 15th April 2018
Where? Various locations across Edinburgh
How much? Prices vary depending on which events you book
What can you expect?
The Edinburgh International Science Festival is the world’s oldest festival of science and 2018 marks its 30th year so expect it to be bigger than ever. There are over 200 events, exhibitions, workshops and discussions taking place across Edinburgh, all linked to the theme of ‘Life, the Universe and Everything’.
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