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BearScotFest 2026 Brings Five Days of LGBT Events to Edinburgh

BearScotFest returns to Edinburgh from 30 September to 4 October 2026, bringing five days of parties, social events and the Mr BearScot competition.

BearScotFest returns to Edinburgh this autumn, with five days of events taking place across the Scottish capital from 30 September to 4 October 2026.

Hosted by BearScots, the annual gathering brings together bears, cubs and their admirers for a programme of social events, parties, brunches and the annual Mr BearScot competition. Current listings confirm the 2026 dates and a multi venue format across Edinburgh.

For visitors travelling from elsewhere in the UK or overseas, the event is easy to combine with a longer Edinburgh stay. The city centre is compact enough to explore between events, while many of its best known attractions, restaurants and nightlife areas are within walking distance or a short journey from one another.

Where to stay

Central Edinburgh is the easiest option for visitors attending BearScotFest, particularly around the New Town, Broughton Street and the eastern side of the city centre.

Staying near these areas keeps visitors close to LGBT venues while still providing straightforward access to Princes Street, the Old Town and the Royal Mile. Those wanting a wider choice of hotels can also look around Haymarket, which remains well connected to the centre by tram and rail.

Edinburgh has everything from hostels and smaller guest houses to boutique and luxury hotels, although accommodation can become more expensive around major events, making earlier booking worthwhile.

Getting there

Edinburgh Waverley sits directly in the heart of the city and has rail connections with cities across Scotland and England. Edinburgh Airport is linked to the centre by tram and bus, making the city relatively straightforward for visitors arriving from elsewhere in the UK or Europe.

Once in Edinburgh, most central areas can be explored on foot, while buses and trams cover longer journeys.

BearScotFest also gives visitors a reason to see Edinburgh outside the peak August festival period. Between events, there is time to explore Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, the New Town, Leith and the city’s wider food and nightlife scene.

The 2026 gathering runs until Sunday 4 October, extending Scotland’s LGBT events calendar well into autumn.