It is the season of wonder Edinburgh magicians, including big hits from this year’s Fringe, are gearing up to blow your mind this Christmas at the 16th annual MagicFest.
At venues across the capital until 30 December, Edinburgh International Magic Festival, will showcase a dazzling array of shows, ranging from quick-fire comedy to exquisitely skilled and mysterious illusion.
They include high-octane performances by Insane Magic, who made a huge splash at the 2025 Fringe and also played Glastonbury, as Cameron Gibson, Elliot Bibby and Luke Osey return to the act’s birthplace at Scottish Storytelling Centre for the first time since they formed in 2023.
There’s also a chance to see best Fringe show of 2025 nominee, and Scotland’s youngest professional magician, 17-year-old Jamie Leonard (also from Edinburgh) in Wonderboy.
Jamie’s act comes with a royal seal of approval – while staying in the French Alps he was invited into a chalet to present an impromptu 30-minute close-up show for a Saudi prince and his daughter. His show has now completely sold out – but keep an eye out for returns and you might get lucky.
Kevin Quantum, festival founder and organiser, said: “There’s always been magic in Edinburgh’s ether. It’s held an irresistible attraction for everyone from medieval sorcerers and alchemists to the great Houdini, who loved to perform here in the early years of the 20th century.
“And it’s no coincidence that the city produces far more than its fair share of professional magicians today.
“We are looking forward to presenting some of the very best at MagicFest, where they will be joined by others drawn to Edinburgh from all over the country and far beyond.
“There will be fun, amazement, laughter and surprise – plus a hint of mystery beneath the sparkle. Join us and unleash your own inner magic.”
Kevin himself is a world class physicist-turned-magician whose shows mix mind-bending tricks, science and immense personal charm.
This year you can see him in his wow-packed Christmas Special with special guests, from Wales, Taylor and Rebecca with their high-energy blend of visual magic, illusions, and circus artistry.
If you fancy something suave there’s Edinburgh Magic (smart attire encouraged) in the plush setting of the Versailles Suite in the Caledonian Hotel, where Kevin’s tricks and illusions are served with a glass of bubbly.
Presented as “a warning about the dangers of magic”, Magic Awareness Society quickly reveals itself as an act of joyful resistance — what begins as a serious briefing soon transforms into a spellbinding celebration of illusion and mischief.
Evergreen Edinburgh favourite Tricky Ricky will be delighting children (and parents) when he’s joined by tartan-nosed Jingles the Reindeer for Jingles All The Way.
And there’s more for younger audiences with a brand new theatrical magic production called Shape Shifters.
Known for his Fringe sell-out shows, professional acting work and consultancy on major stage productions, Tim Licata is a magician who works across theatre, storytelling and illusion.
A familiar face to Edinburgh audiences — including as resident magician at The Joker and the Thief pub — the American-Italian-Scottish performer now brings his expertise to the next generation, inviting 12–18-year-olds to join his Making Magic workshop. Participants will learn practical magic skills and performance techniques before wowing friends and family over the festive season
If more proof was needed that Edinburgh is a bubbling cauldron of the arcane, there’s also an appearance from Professor Richard Wiseman.
Don’t be duped by the show title The World’s Most Boring Card Trick. Wiseman is a consummate performer who designs tricks for the world’s top magicians and is an eminent academic expert in human psychology.
The MagicFest vortex is also drawing in acts from elsewhere – with a welcome appearance from Aberdeen’s acclaimed intergenerational Four.
Ivor Smith, Jeff Burns, Eoin Smith, and James Dickson, guarantee a good time, having been named Best UK Magic Show in 2024.
Full line up and tickets here www.magicfest.co.uk
