Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 2022: how to get tickets, when is it and how long is the show

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo will host a number of explosive events throughout August.

The return of Edinburgh Fringe Festival brings tonnes of shows to the city for the summer, and means the return of the traditional Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo show.

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has become one of the most iconic events in Edinburgh’s calendar since its inception in 1950.

The spectacular show celebrates the skills and talents of military bands and displays teams from across the globe, right in the heart of our city.

An image of Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelenskyy was projected onto Edinburgh Castle during the finale of this year's Tattoo. Picture: Jane Barlow/PA Wire

So, when does the Edinburgh Tattoo take place and can you still get tickets?

Here’s everything you need to know about the annual event.

What is The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo?

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is an annual show performed by the British Armed Forces, Commonwealth and international military bands.

The show also features artistic performance teams on the Esplanade of Edinburgh Castle.

Since the first show in 1950, the Edinburgh Tattoo has been a staple feature among the Edinburgh Fringe Festival throughout the month of August.

When is The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo?

The 2022 show will be held every Monday to Saturday from 5 to 27 August.

The shows will start at 9pm most weekdays, with the exception of Friday 26 August when per will take place at 6.15pm and 9.30pm. The shows will also take place on Saturdays at 6.15pm & 9.30pm.

Where is the The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo held?

The spectacular show will be performed, as usual, at The Edinburgh Castle Esplanade.

How long does the show last?

The show is scheduled to last two hours and features an entertaining mix of Bagpipers, Marching Bands, and amazing military displays.

Can I still get tickets?

Yes. Tickets are still available for one of the many shows that will take place.

Tickets can be purchased on The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo website.

How much do tickets to the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo cost?

Standard ticket prices range from £30.00 to £95.00 each. This price does not include any additional admin or delivery fees.

Premier Seats, Royal Gallery Seats and Hospitality Packages will range from £145.00 to £640.00 and will also have an added booking and handling fee.

Who will be performing at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 2022?

As usual the show will feature a range of varied artists, including some fan favourites returning to the iconic stage such as: The Massed Pipes and Drums, athletic Tattoo Dance Company and iconic Lone Piper like you’ve never seen them before.

This year they will be joined by groups from Switzerland, Mexico, USA and New Zealand including The Top Secret Drum Corps and New Zealand Army Band.

Will there be flyovers in Edinburgh this August?

As part of the tradition of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo there are flyovers where you can hear the roar of military jets as they fly past.

The flyover dates and approximate times for the 2022 show are as follows:

• 6 August 2022: 6:15pm
• 12 August 2022: 9:00pm 
• 16 August 2022: 9:00pm
• 18 August 2022: 9:00pm
• 26 August 2022: 9:30pm

All scheduled flyovers are subject to change or cancellation due to weather conditions and/or operational reasons.

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