I went to the 2026 Edinburgh Tattoo and found a colourful celebration of community

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This year’s show is the 76th Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and runs from 7-29 August. I was one of a lucky few to attend on 5 August for the dress rehearsal and saw this year’s show in all of its colourful glory.

Titled A Call to Gather, the show has the Royal Air Force at the forefront and is inspired by the gathering of Scottish clans, nations, allies and friends. Inspiration also came from The Call statue in Princes Street Gardens. The public art piece that commemorates the power of connection Scotland has is shown as a kilted young man with a rifle who is facing the war memorial and who is brought to life during this year’s Tattoo.

Narrated by Outlander and Rebus actor Richard Rankin, the 90 minute show has visiting international acts from New Zealand, Germany, America, Canada and making their debut, the Qatar Police Academy Band and Drill team.

Once again the imposing Castle is lit up and used as a backdrop for animation, statements and colourful films that complement the music, dancing and marching.

Music from Scottish traditional musical acts Tidelines, Skerryvore and Skippinish is brought together for one scene, interspersed with the rising notes of the pipes, drums, brass and the ancient Carnyx, which opens this year’s show.

As ever the Tattoo is a cultural celebration of what unites us - music, community and creativity and this year’s performances continue to showcase this much-loved show’s global reach. Something even the changeable Scottish summer weather can’t dampen.