PASSION FOR THE ARTS

In 2025, over 103,000 visitors flocked to Fringe by the Sea over 10 incredible days, making it one of Scotland’s most vibrant and diverse festivals. Recognised as the National Winner of the Outstanding Cultural Festival at the 2023 Scottish Thistle Awards, it continues to grow as a must-visit celebration of arts and culture.

Unlike many events that focus solely on headline acts, we embrace all forms of art—from music and comedy to literature, theatre, film, and beyond. Our festival is a celebration of creativity in all its forms, featuring:

🎶 World-class music – from French duo Air to energetic Mercury Award winners Ezra Collective to legendary Boomtown Rats and Scottish favourites Hamish Hawk and Manran.
💃 Unforgettable dance beats – bouncing beats with Hot Dub Time Machine, Basement Jaxx, Hot Chip and Todd Terry.
🎤 Engaging conversations – with celebrated personalities Joe Wicks, George Clarke, renowned politician Rory Stewart and beloved Scottish hero Sir Chris Hoy.
🤣 Side-splitting comedy – with household names including Alan Davies, Frankie Boyle, Dara Ó Briain, Dylan Moran, and Fred MacAulay.
📚 Thought-provoking authors – including Maggie O’Farrell, Chris Brookmyre, and Alexander McCall Smith
👨‍👩‍👧 Fantastic family events – featuring  Flawless, Trash Test Dummies, Horrible Histories, Dick & Dom, and The Singing Kettle.

With a mix of stunning venues—from the buzzing Big Top and intimate Lodge Stage to the immersive Film Dome (new for 2025!), the Border Bothy, and the Kids Zone—there’s a space for every kind of performance and experience.

Year after year, Fringe by the Sea continues to evolve, bringing together a diverse mix of artists, audiences, and ideas. Set along Scotland’s beautiful coastline, it offers an inspiring and welcoming space for creativity to thrive.