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Basket: £0.00
(Sat 10 Oct: 11am) Travel to lands of myth and legend. Meet magical beasts and birds and bugs. Learn about wondrous creatures of our own world. Together, we’ll rediscover ways to enjoy and protect nature’s magic. Part interactive storytelling performance, part craft workshop, all fun! Inspired by the storyteller's experience with the Jane Goodall Institute and Marine Conservation Society, Animal Magic invites young explorers and their grown-ups to (re)connect with the birds and beasts around us, retelling a classic Irish fairy tale to explore and celebrate the wonders of the natural world. Might their realness make these creatures all the more magical? ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 10 Oct: 3pm) Step into a story carved into Scotland’s landscape and carried through centuries of memory. The Last People on Earth invites you on a powerful journey back almost 2,000 years, to a defining moment in Scotland’s history: the battle of Mons Graupius. A new show by celebrated Scottish storyteller Andy Cannon, who with his trademark warmth and wit breathes life into this ancient encounter between the Caledonians and the unstoppable force of the Roman Empire. The Last People on Earth blends storytelling, original music and the latest archaeological insights to unearth glimpses of truth buried deep in time. What really happened on that distant day? How did this moment shape the story of a nation? Whose voices have endured — and whose have been lost? ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 11 Oct: 11am) Join storyteller Ailie Finlay and artist Catherine Lindow from My Kind of Book for sensory stories of birds and animals. Hear tales of happenings in the burrows and bird-boxes, dens and byres of Scotland at night. Join in with the stories, actions and props with lots of things to squish and shake! Then enjoy a relaxed sensory art session inspired by the stories where you'll be making all kinds of dens for your birds and beasties. Fun for everyone but particularly suitable for children with additional needs and their families and friends. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship, with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Tue 13, Wed 14 & Thu 15 Oct: 10:30am) Can you craft a story? Professional storytellers Sarah Wedderburn-Ogilvy and Ailsa Dixon invite you to fun-filled sessions learning a different iconic Aesop fable every day. Explore stories through games and movement and learn the skills you need to develop your own storycraft. A great introduction to the art of live storytelling for aspiring young tellers aged 7-10 years; pick your favourite story and book for one session or start to really build your repertoire with multiple sessions. Tue 13: The Crow and the PitcherWed 14: The Ant and the GrasshopperThu 15: The Birds, the Beasts and the Bat ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Tue 13 & Thu 15 Oct: 1:30pm) Why are the Ravens gathering? And what is the secret of Ada's past? Inspired by the Brothers Grimm fairy tale, The Seven Ravens tells the story of a girl thrust into a dream world of quests, feathers and a glass mountain. Join Ada on a tiny world adventure over an extraordinary hand-felted landscape as she uncovers the secret of the ravens. Director, storyteller, performer and puppeteer Freda O'Byrne uses an eclectic mix of genres to explore the stories of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances. Her Suitcase Stories take audiences into a magical tiny world entirely within a suitcase, reaching out and engaging their imaginations through storytelling and puppetry. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
George Mackay Brown Library
(Thu 15 Oct: 1:30pm) Feathers & Fur: A Fabled Fandango is a tail-wagging, wing-flapping celebration of some of history’s most extraordinary animal heroes. Join storytellers Lea Taylor and Nicola Wright for a lively mix of traditional storytelling, song, humour and audience participation as they uncover the remarkable true tales of courageous dogs and heroic pigeons. Meet Laika, the space-travelling dog who reached for the stars, Winkie the pigeon whose actions helped save lives during wartime, and other feathered and furry legends whose bravery, loyalty and determination have often gone unnoticed. Along the way, discover why pigeons may be far cleverer than their reputation suggests, and whether dogs really deserve the title of “man’s best friend”. You are invited to sing along, join in a playful Quiz of Courage, and compete for the chance to earn prestigious honours in the Golden Poop Scoop Awards in a heartwarming, quirky and entertaining adventure celebrating the animals who have worked, served and sometimes saved us without ever asking for the credit. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 16 Oct: 11am) Meet cheeky monkeys up to mischief on the Royal Mile, elephants on parade at the Castle and determined dogs whose loyalty made them famous. These fascinating tales, inspired by Edinburgh’s rich past, bring to life some of the city’s most unusual and beloved animal characters. Along the way, children and adults alike will be invited to sing, clap, chant, and join in the storytelling as the adventures unfold. Perfect for families, this interactive show combines history, folklore, storytelling and song in a celebration of Edinburgh’s famous furry friends. Come along, join the fun and discover the animal antics hidden within the streets and stories of Scotland’s capital city! ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Meet at Scottish Storytelling Centre
(Sat 17 Oct) Celebrate international Intangible Cultural Heritage Day with an open-doors day of family fun at the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Explore our shared living heritage through story, crafts, dance, music and song with a line-up of come and try workshops and drop-in activity for all ages. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Sun 18 Oct: 2pm) From gifting bears and bearing gifts to Kings, join our young hero Beloved and his Bear on an epic journey and explore our relationship to our feral forefathers. Drawing on Icelandic saga and Scandinavian folktales join storyteller Jan Bee Brown and musician Toby Hawks for some grrreat tales. Family-friendly and dementia-inclusive. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship, with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 24 Oct) Encounter birds, beasts and beasties of all kinds with a full day of free fun at the National Museum of Scotland, featuring stories and crafts for all the family. Over the course of the day you can...Venture into the woods with Claire McNicol for stories of woodland and forest, the changing seasons and birds and beasts that live among the trees.Dive under the sea with Janis Mackay for stories of sea creatures both real and mythical and tales of tide, weather and wave.Go wild with Macastory on a Story Safari around the museum and see what you can discover.Meet the wee-est of the Wee Folk with Gauri Raje and Patrick Chadwick, featuring magical footage of the bugs and beasties who have lived here since before the Highland Boundary Fault formed (MILLIONS of years!). Between stories and adventures, there will be plenty of family-friendly crafts and activities to keep you entertained.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
National Museum of Scotland
(Sat 24 Oct: 10:30am) If you could have your own wings to take you anywhere, what would they be like? Join Turkish storyteller, children's author and educator Nazife Burcu Takıl for a joyful, highly interactive family storytelling experience inspired by the colours, songs and traditions that connect us across cultures. Together, you'll create your own magical wings before setting off on an unforgettable adventure through the Tunnel of Rhymes, under the Song Tree and across the shimmering Lake of Colours. Along the way, help shape the story through movement, music, imagination and play, becoming the wind, the rain, the snow and even the changing seasons. Blending English-language storytelling with Turkish words, songs and playful participation, Wings of Colour celebrates kindness, belonging, friendship and the joy of discovering that every colour, every voice and every culture has something wonderful to share. Because when we fly together, our differences become our greatest strength. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sun 25 Oct: 8pm) A powerful exploration of how stepdance, Scotland’s percussive dance, was lost… and how its revival became woven into a lifelong friendship. Experience a compelling journey across centuries of tradition told through fiddle, feet, Gaelic song and story, in an immersive performance which draws you in to the heart of our heritage. Deiseil means 'ready' in Scottish Gaelic: be ready for a mesmerising reflection on how issues of culture, identity and connection still resonate through society today. Groundbreaking work from award-winning director Gerry Mulgrew, dancer Alison Carlyle and musician Amy Geddes. For this performance Amy and Alison will be joined by musicians Mairi Campbell, Fin Moore and Sarah Hoy. A force of nature and soul, Mairi’s voice has stirred hearts across the globe. Mairi is a Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame inductee, with numerous national and international awards to her name. Deeply personal, politically resonant, and artistically fearless, Mairi’s work reaches into cultural memory and lived experiences. Find out more at mairicampbell.scot. Fin Moore plays the Highland pipes, Border pipes and Scottish Small Pipes and is also a very successful pipemaker. Fin also has a reputation as a teacher of pipes, and runs exciting music retreats through Far North Retreats. He has played solo and with bands including, InB, Seudan, Dannsa, Slainte Mhath and Back of the Moon. Sarah Hoy was born into a musical family in Edinburgh, learning fiddle from her father Derek Hoy, and later with Mairi Campbell. Sarah enjoys playing with Bella McNab’s Dance Band, her favourite place to be is playing for dancing! Sarah is now a primary teacher in the Gaelic Medium primary school in Edinburgh and enjoys teaching fiddle each week through Portobello Fun Fiddle. ‘This is the most joyful show I’ve seen so far this Fringe.’ ★★★★★ (Scotsman)★★★★★ (AllEdinburghTheatre.com) ~~~~~ The Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. All across Scotland we invite you to discover stories that illuminate the place of birds and beasts in our traditions, folklore, myths and futures. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, festival partners in Edinburgh, Glasgow and beyond will bring these tales to life through performances, conversations and music. The 2026 Festival welcomes special guest storytellers from Italy and Türkiye, as well as Canada, England, and Ireland, sharing traditions and stories passed down through generations. Join us for unforgettable tales, inspiring music and moments that bring us closer to nature. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight. Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 31 Oct: 10:30am) Join storyteller, illustrator, and printmaker Morvern Graham against the backdrop of her Folkloria! exhibition for a wonderful morning of stories, crafting and mask-making to celebrate Samhuinn. Come in the Halloween spirit and be prepared to get crafty before parading your new masks around the Storytelling Centre and out into Edinburgh’s Old Town. Costumes are welcomed and encouraged! ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Online On-Demand) Another Story is our podcast series exploring some of the themes featured in recent festivals. Tune in to hear some wonderful storytellers share their favourite tales and chat about storytelling in Scotland and beyond. So join us for Another Story... Available wherever you get your podcasts, including Spotify, Apple, Google and Amazon. Follow us by liking and subscribing so you don’t miss an episode! Listen Here
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Online SISF
Enjoy several multimedia storytelling performances filmed live in the Scottish Storytelling Centre's Netherbow Theatre in October 2022, where a world of local Scottish stories unfolds through the live voices of traditional storytellers and site-specific film footage of the landscapes they emerge from. Featuring stories from Dumfries and Galloway, the North East, Orkney, the Outer Hebrides and Perth and Kinross. ~~~~~~~~~~ These live performances were part of Tales, Tongues and Trails, a celebration of regional and international language, landscape and identities for the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2022. Map of Stories YouTube playlist of all five Film Ceilidhs Scottish International Storytelling Festival Live filming by Sandy McGhie (Channel 7A). ~~~~~~~~~~ Map of Stories is a collaboration between Transgressive North, Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland and Rectangle Design, supported by Creative Scotland and EventScotland as part of Scotland's Year of Stories 2022.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Online SISF
(Sat 10 Oct: 11am) Travel to lands of myth and legend. Meet magical beasts and birds and bugs. Learn about wondrous creatures of our own world. Together, we’ll rediscover ways to enjoy and protect nature’s magic. Part interactive storytelling performance, part craft workshop, all fun! Inspired by the storyteller's experience with the Jane Goodall Institute and Marine Conservation Society, Animal Magic invites young explorers and their grown-ups to (re)connect with the birds and beasts around us, retelling a classic Irish fairy tale to explore and celebrate the wonders of the natural world. Might their realness make these creatures all the more magical? ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 10 Oct: 3pm) Step into a story carved into Scotland’s landscape and carried through centuries of memory. The Last People on Earth invites you on a powerful journey back almost 2,000 years, to a defining moment in Scotland’s history: the battle of Mons Graupius. A new show by celebrated Scottish storyteller Andy Cannon, who with his trademark warmth and wit breathes life into this ancient encounter between the Caledonians and the unstoppable force of the Roman Empire. The Last People on Earth blends storytelling, original music and the latest archaeological insights to unearth glimpses of truth buried deep in time. What really happened on that distant day? How did this moment shape the story of a nation? Whose voices have endured — and whose have been lost? ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 11 Oct: 11am) Join storyteller Ailie Finlay and artist Catherine Lindow from My Kind of Book for sensory stories of birds and animals. Hear tales of happenings in the burrows and bird-boxes, dens and byres of Scotland at night. Join in with the stories, actions and props with lots of things to squish and shake! Then enjoy a relaxed sensory art session inspired by the stories where you'll be making all kinds of dens for your birds and beasties. Fun for everyone but particularly suitable for children with additional needs and their families and friends. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship, with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Tue 13, Wed 14 & Thu 15 Oct: 10:30am) Can you craft a story? Professional storytellers Sarah Wedderburn-Ogilvy and Ailsa Dixon invite you to fun-filled sessions learning a different iconic Aesop fable every day. Explore stories through games and movement and learn the skills you need to develop your own storycraft. A great introduction to the art of live storytelling for aspiring young tellers aged 7-10 years; pick your favourite story and book for one session or start to really build your repertoire with multiple sessions. Tue 13: The Crow and the PitcherWed 14: The Ant and the GrasshopperThu 15: The Birds, the Beasts and the Bat ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Tue 13 & Thu 15 Oct: 1:30pm) Why are the Ravens gathering? And what is the secret of Ada's past? Inspired by the Brothers Grimm fairy tale, The Seven Ravens tells the story of a girl thrust into a dream world of quests, feathers and a glass mountain. Join Ada on a tiny world adventure over an extraordinary hand-felted landscape as she uncovers the secret of the ravens. Director, storyteller, performer and puppeteer Freda O'Byrne uses an eclectic mix of genres to explore the stories of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances. Her Suitcase Stories take audiences into a magical tiny world entirely within a suitcase, reaching out and engaging their imaginations through storytelling and puppetry. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
George Mackay Brown Library
(Thu 15 Oct: 1:30pm) Feathers & Fur: A Fabled Fandango is a tail-wagging, wing-flapping celebration of some of history’s most extraordinary animal heroes. Join storytellers Lea Taylor and Nicola Wright for a lively mix of traditional storytelling, song, humour and audience participation as they uncover the remarkable true tales of courageous dogs and heroic pigeons. Meet Laika, the space-travelling dog who reached for the stars, Winkie the pigeon whose actions helped save lives during wartime, and other feathered and furry legends whose bravery, loyalty and determination have often gone unnoticed. Along the way, discover why pigeons may be far cleverer than their reputation suggests, and whether dogs really deserve the title of “man’s best friend”. You are invited to sing along, join in a playful Quiz of Courage, and compete for the chance to earn prestigious honours in the Golden Poop Scoop Awards in a heartwarming, quirky and entertaining adventure celebrating the animals who have worked, served and sometimes saved us without ever asking for the credit. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 16 Oct: 11am) Meet cheeky monkeys up to mischief on the Royal Mile, elephants on parade at the Castle and determined dogs whose loyalty made them famous. These fascinating tales, inspired by Edinburgh’s rich past, bring to life some of the city’s most unusual and beloved animal characters. Along the way, children and adults alike will be invited to sing, clap, chant, and join in the storytelling as the adventures unfold. Perfect for families, this interactive show combines history, folklore, storytelling and song in a celebration of Edinburgh’s famous furry friends. Come along, join the fun and discover the animal antics hidden within the streets and stories of Scotland’s capital city! ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Meet at Scottish Storytelling Centre
(Sat 17 Oct) Celebrate international Intangible Cultural Heritage Day with an open-doors day of family fun at the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Explore our shared living heritage through story, crafts, dance, music and song with a line-up of come and try workshops and drop-in activity for all ages. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Sun 18 Oct: 2pm) From gifting bears and bearing gifts to Kings, join our young hero Beloved and his Bear on an epic journey and explore our relationship to our feral forefathers. Drawing on Icelandic saga and Scandinavian folktales join storyteller Jan Bee Brown and musician Toby Hawks for some grrreat tales. Family-friendly and dementia-inclusive. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship, with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 24 Oct) Encounter birds, beasts and beasties of all kinds with a full day of free fun at the National Museum of Scotland, featuring stories and crafts for all the family. Over the course of the day you can...Venture into the woods with Claire McNicol for stories of woodland and forest, the changing seasons and birds and beasts that live among the trees.Dive under the sea with Janis Mackay for stories of sea creatures both real and mythical and tales of tide, weather and wave.Go wild with Macastory on a Story Safari around the museum and see what you can discover.Meet the wee-est of the Wee Folk with Gauri Raje and Patrick Chadwick, featuring magical footage of the bugs and beasties who have lived here since before the Highland Boundary Fault formed (MILLIONS of years!). Between stories and adventures, there will be plenty of family-friendly crafts and activities to keep you entertained.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
National Museum of Scotland
(Sat 24 Oct: 10:30am) If you could have your own wings to take you anywhere, what would they be like? Join Turkish storyteller, children's author and educator Nazife Burcu Takıl for a joyful, highly interactive family storytelling experience inspired by the colours, songs and traditions that connect us across cultures. Together, you'll create your own magical wings before setting off on an unforgettable adventure through the Tunnel of Rhymes, under the Song Tree and across the shimmering Lake of Colours. Along the way, help shape the story through movement, music, imagination and play, becoming the wind, the rain, the snow and even the changing seasons. Blending English-language storytelling with Turkish words, songs and playful participation, Wings of Colour celebrates kindness, belonging, friendship and the joy of discovering that every colour, every voice and every culture has something wonderful to share. Because when we fly together, our differences become our greatest strength. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sun 25 Oct: 8pm) A powerful exploration of how stepdance, Scotland’s percussive dance, was lost… and how its revival became woven into a lifelong friendship. Experience a compelling journey across centuries of tradition told through fiddle, feet, Gaelic song and story, in an immersive performance which draws you in to the heart of our heritage. Deiseil means 'ready' in Scottish Gaelic: be ready for a mesmerising reflection on how issues of culture, identity and connection still resonate through society today. Groundbreaking work from award-winning director Gerry Mulgrew, dancer Alison Carlyle and musician Amy Geddes. For this performance Amy and Alison will be joined by musicians Mairi Campbell, Fin Moore and Sarah Hoy. A force of nature and soul, Mairi’s voice has stirred hearts across the globe. Mairi is a Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame inductee, with numerous national and international awards to her name. Deeply personal, politically resonant, and artistically fearless, Mairi’s work reaches into cultural memory and lived experiences. Find out more at mairicampbell.scot. Fin Moore plays the Highland pipes, Border pipes and Scottish Small Pipes and is also a very successful pipemaker. Fin also has a reputation as a teacher of pipes, and runs exciting music retreats through Far North Retreats. He has played solo and with bands including, InB, Seudan, Dannsa, Slainte Mhath and Back of the Moon. Sarah Hoy was born into a musical family in Edinburgh, learning fiddle from her father Derek Hoy, and later with Mairi Campbell. Sarah enjoys playing with Bella McNab’s Dance Band, her favourite place to be is playing for dancing! Sarah is now a primary teacher in the Gaelic Medium primary school in Edinburgh and enjoys teaching fiddle each week through Portobello Fun Fiddle. ‘This is the most joyful show I’ve seen so far this Fringe.’ ★★★★★ (Scotsman)★★★★★ (AllEdinburghTheatre.com) ~~~~~ The Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. All across Scotland we invite you to discover stories that illuminate the place of birds and beasts in our traditions, folklore, myths and futures. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, festival partners in Edinburgh, Glasgow and beyond will bring these tales to life through performances, conversations and music. The 2026 Festival welcomes special guest storytellers from Italy and Türkiye, as well as Canada, England, and Ireland, sharing traditions and stories passed down through generations. Join us for unforgettable tales, inspiring music and moments that bring us closer to nature. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight. Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 31 Oct: 10:30am) Join storyteller, illustrator, and printmaker Morvern Graham against the backdrop of her Folkloria! exhibition for a wonderful morning of stories, crafting and mask-making to celebrate Samhuinn. Come in the Halloween spirit and be prepared to get crafty before parading your new masks around the Storytelling Centre and out into Edinburgh’s Old Town. Costumes are welcomed and encouraged! ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Online On-Demand) Another Story is our podcast series exploring some of the themes featured in recent festivals. Tune in to hear some wonderful storytellers share their favourite tales and chat about storytelling in Scotland and beyond. So join us for Another Story... Available wherever you get your podcasts, including Spotify, Apple, Google and Amazon. Follow us by liking and subscribing so you don’t miss an episode! Listen Here
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Online SISF
Enjoy several multimedia storytelling performances filmed live in the Scottish Storytelling Centre's Netherbow Theatre in October 2022, where a world of local Scottish stories unfolds through the live voices of traditional storytellers and site-specific film footage of the landscapes they emerge from. Featuring stories from Dumfries and Galloway, the North East, Orkney, the Outer Hebrides and Perth and Kinross. ~~~~~~~~~~ These live performances were part of Tales, Tongues and Trails, a celebration of regional and international language, landscape and identities for the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2022. Map of Stories YouTube playlist of all five Film Ceilidhs Scottish International Storytelling Festival Live filming by Sandy McGhie (Channel 7A). ~~~~~~~~~~ Map of Stories is a collaboration between Transgressive North, Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland and Rectangle Design, supported by Creative Scotland and EventScotland as part of Scotland's Year of Stories 2022.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Online SISF
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