Meadows Festival

About

The Meadows Festival is Edinburgh's beloved community celebration that transforms one of the city's most iconic parks into a vibrant hub of family entertainment. This free annual event features live music, circus acts, funfair rides, sports activities, and creative workshops that keep children engaged for hours. It's the perfect introduction to Edinburgh's friendly community spirit while enjoying Scottish summer in a relaxed, green setting.

What to Expect

Families will find a sprawling festival across the historic Meadows parkland with multiple zones of entertainment. Expect a lively funfair with rides for various ages, performance stages hosting local musicians and entertainers, circus skills workshops, face painting, sports demonstrations, and community stalls. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with families picnicking on the grass between activities. The festival typically runs for one full day with activities from late morning through early evening, creating a true community gathering that celebrates summer in Edinburgh.

Highlights for Kids

• Free funfair rides and traditional carnival games that create nostalgic family fun
• Circus skills workshops where kids can try juggling, hula hooping, and plate spinning
• Live music and dance performances from local acts on multiple stages throughout the day
• Wide open green spaces perfect for playing games, running around, and flying kites
• Community feel with local craft stalls, charity booths, and opportunities to meet Edinburgh families

Pro Tips for Families

1. Arrive early (around 11am-noon) to enjoy activities before peak crowds hit in mid-afternoon, and claim a good picnic spot on the grass for your base camp
2. Bring a blanket, sunscreen, and layers—Scottish weather can shift quickly, even in June, so pack waterproofs just in case
3. While the festival is free, bring cash for funfair rides, food vendors, and activity donations—many stalls prefer cash over cards
4. The Meadows has limited shade, so bring hats and consider a portable sun shelter if you have very young children who need regular breaks from the sun

Best Time to Visit

Arrive between 11am and 1pm to experience the full range of activities without overwhelming crowds. The festival hits peak busyness between 2-4pm when locals finish weekend errands. Early afternoon offers the best balance of atmosphere and accessibility, while late afternoon (after 4pm) sees quieter queues for rides but some stalls may start packing up by 6pm.

Food & Drinks

The festival features a variety of food vendors offering everything from classic burgers and fish and chips to international street food, vegetarian options, and sweet treats like ice cream and candy floss. Most vendors are kid-friendly with simple, familiar options. Prices are reasonable (£5-8 per main dish), though bringing your own picnic is perfectly acceptable and popular with locals. Soft drinks and water are available for purchase, but bring reusable water bottles as there are taps in the park. Note that food options tend to be cash-friendly, so carry notes and coins.

Parking & Access

The Meadows is centrally located and most easily reached on foot or by public transport from Edinburgh city center (15-minute walk from Princes Street). Parking is extremely limited in surrounding residential areas with permit zones, so avoid driving if possible. The nearest pay-and-display car parks are at George Square or The Quartermile (10-minute walk). For international visitors, taking a bus (routes 23, 27, 41, 42 all stop nearby) or taxi from your accommodation is most convenient. The park itself is fully accessible with flat, paved paths around the perimeter, though some central grassy areas may be challenging for strollers after rain. The festival layout generally remains stroller-friendly with accessible routes between activity zones.