The Portobello Fringe Festival, a new festival which will take place at the same time as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, will begin this year in Portobello Town Hall.
The Porty Fringe will aim to put together a “feel-good” programme of shows, live music, comedy, spoken word, conversation, and musical theatre, running from 5 August – 16 August 2026.
Organisers Stage Door have put out an open call for applications and pitches from performers. Local acts are especially encouraged to apply.
Portobello Town Hall has hosted a range of Fringe events since it was taken over on community ownership, but a dedicated festival will be a brand-new addition to Edinburgh’s busy festival season.
The porty fringe is looking to use Portobello Town Hall as a central nexus for uniquely local performance art, bringing the magic of the Fringe to people’s doorsteps in Portobello.
The event has been announced under the tagline “Your Summer. Your Neighbourhood. Your Fringe.”
Organisers Stage Door said: “Right in the heart of Portobello, Porty Fringe is taking over Portobello Town Hall and providing entertainment for everyone.
“We’re looking forward to filling a feel-good programme of shows, live music, comedy, spoken word, conversation, musical theatre, and family fun, and we can’t wait to work with local artists and performers to bring Porty Fringe to life!
“As the Fringe buzzes across the city, Porty brings its own stage to the celebration – right on your doorstep.
“Expect lively crowds, unforgettable performances, and something new around every corner.
“From laugh-out-loud comedy to toe-tapping concerts and magical moments for kids, this is your summer, your neighbourhood, your Fringe.”
Portobello has a growing festival culture, and already hosts the Porty Festival, a community event which celebrates Portobello.
That festival is the brainchild of local duo Seb Fluchard and Carmen Chalmers, and itself is only its second year, having debuted successfully in 2025.
The festival will run from the 2-3 May with a range of musical acts, markets, food stalls, and community events.
They Porty Fringe has set up an application portal for prospective performers.
Organisers say that their marketing and PR team will aim to “present a strong and cohesive Porty Fringe programme”.
