07 Track 7

Unit 9

Festivals and Celebrations

Chapter 2

Edinburgh Festival Journal

Page 113

Edinburgh Festival Journal

September 1

I am so excited! My roommate Christopher and I are on our flight to Edinburgh, Scotland, for the Edinburgh International Festival. It’s the biggest arts festival in the world and combines many separate festivals happening at the same time.

I’m especially excited to see lots of indie art and films. There’s so much to do, and we only have three days!

September 2

Christopher and I arrived at our hotel in Edinburgh last night. After checking in, we had dinner and explored the city streets.

It was really fascinating but we went to bed soon after because we were so tired! Today we went to King’s Theatre to watch some short plays that are part of the Fringe Festival.

People here call it “The Fringe,” and it has an awesome variety of shows by all sorts of performing arts groups. A parade of actors greeted us as we walked down the street.

They were waving colorful flags, one for each of the theater companies performing at the festival. It was a great way for us to start our Festival experience. Christopher wants to hear some bands at the Jazz & Blues Festival, and we hope to see a good film tonight.

September 3

I saw an awesome comedian today! He was so funny that I couldn’t stop laughing. I wish we had these kind of events in my hometown. Christopher and I spent the afternoon walking along the river.

There were painters on either side, working and displaying all kinds of art. Later, we went to the Foodies Festival for dinner and tried local Scottish foods. Most of it was delicious, although, there were a few foods we didn’t dare try-like haggis!

September 4

Today is the final day of the international Festival, but some of the smaller festivals will go on for a few more days. The plan is to watch some short plays in the amphitheater in the park after lunch. Then, later tonight, we’ll attend the closing ceremonies in the city center and watch the fireworks. I can’t believe the festival is almost over!