Edinburgh Cocktail Week 2025: The UK’s Biggest Cocktail Festival is Back

Edinburgh Cocktail Week returns from 3–12 October 2025, transforming the capital into the ultimate playground for cocktail lovers. With over 100 bars, a reimagined Cocktail Village at Festival Square, and a record-breaking lineup of £5 cocktails, this year’s programme is set to be the biggest and boldest yet.

A New-Look Cocktail Village

At the heart of the festival, the Cocktail Village has had a glow-up. Expect:

  • 24 pop-up bars – the most ever

  • Twice as many £5 cocktails, with every bar offering at least two serves

  • A brand-new Village Pub hosted by Seamus’s, complete with pints, darts, board games, and trad music

  • An outdoor drinks terrace with castle views

  • 60% more seating for laid-back sipping

  • A Street Food Market debut with Dough La La, Truck Sri and The Wee Taqueria

  • All-day live music from bands, DJs and local artists

  • And yes, it’s now dog-friendly on weekdays

Open daily from noon until late (closing at 8pm on Sundays), the Cocktail Village promises a festival vibe all day and night long.

£5 Cocktails Citywide

Beyond Festival Square, over 100 venues across Edinburgh will be shaking and stirring signature £5 serves. From grand institutions like The Dome to fresh openings including BABA, Bar 1819, Pizza Pilgrims and Vessel, there’s no shortage of spots to sip.

Prestige Cocktails

For something special, wristband holders can enjoy Prestige Cocktails for £9. Crafted by award-winning mixologists, these elevated serves come from venues like Panda & Sons (crowned World’s Best Cocktail Menu), The Hoxton, Nor’ Loft and Lucky Liquor, alongside returning favourites including The Register Club, Devil’s Advocate and Lady Libertine.

Why You’ll Love It

Gary Anderson, Managing Director of Edinburgh Cocktail Week, says:
“Attendees can look forward to lots of new experiences and a great day out. For many, our festival has become an annual tradition for meeting up with friends, from near and afar, which is joyous to see.”

Roddy Smith, CEO of Essential Edinburgh, adds:
“We’re immensely proud to call Edinburgh City Centre home to the UK’s largest cocktail festival. If you haven’t yet got your wristbands, don’t delay – you’ll not want to miss it.”

Edinburgh Cocktail Week runs 3–12 October 2025. Wristbands are on sale now.

In The Hood, Foodhood mag