Read our Privacy noticeOne of the biggest arts festivals on the planet, the Edinburgh Fringe is still hitting audiences’ funny bones almost 50 years on – even though, in 2026, they might seem harder to find than ever. However, the depressing state of the world won’t stop the comics at this year’s Fringe from looking for laughs. “By the time they’re in a comedy audience, they’re already halfway to not thinking about the outside world, which is useful for us.” Ultimately, the Edinburgh Fringe is still a buzzing hub for all things live comedy – and only becoming more important with the artform starting to disappear from TV. The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is running in venues across the city until 31 August