Beloved Edinburgh Meadows Festival announces hiatus as costs rise
The popular festival usually takes place on the first weekend of June
The popular Meadows Festival has announced its taking the year off in the face of declining volunteers and rising costs.
The beloved festival takes place at The Meadows on the first weekend of June, bringing market stalls, live performances and family activities to the city’s green space.
First held in 1974 to bring live music to people living around The Meadows, the festival has taken place almost every year since, growing into a major community event which attracts thousands of visitors.
Yet, the volunteers behind the community festival said they were forced to make “the difficult decision” not to hold the event next June.
They said: “With rising costs and fewer volunteers available to organise the festival, we need some time to regroup, recharge and plan for the future.
“We’re hoping to be back in June 2028, stronger and ready to bring the Meadows to life once again!
“A huge thank you to everyone who’s been part of the festival over the years. From our amazing volunteers and performers to our traders, partners and everyone who’s joined us for a dance in the Meadows , you’re what makes this festival so special!”
Locals were quick to show their support for the decision, recognising the pressure and hard work it takes to put on such a large festival.
June Jamieson said: "It's absolutely fair enough. Putting on such a huge event isn't for the faint hearted.
“You need a lot of support and the smaller the team gets, it's wise to have a rest, plan for the following year and try to use the time to galvanise more folk to help.”
Katalina Kitt added: “The Meadows Fest is an Edinburgh institution, a great weekend for everyone bairns to grannies. It must take so much organisation and commitment from all the volunteers and the bands who play etc.”
Testifying to this, Tony Miller, who hosted the main stage last year, said: “The team works incredibly hard to put this on. I know they will be so disappointed.
“Keep the heads up. We will come back stronger.”
Organisers said they would keep residents updated as plans for the festival’s return in 2028 take shape.