Programme announced for Scarborough Fringe Festival 2026

Scarborough Fringe has launched its 2026 programme for its ten-day festival, which will run from Friday (June 12) to Sunday (June 21).  

Free and ticketed performances will feature theatre, music, comedy, spoken word, children’s shows, talks and workshops.

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Artists and performers will also be offering meditative sound baths, immersive experiences, and theatre and street performances.

Resident glass expert on the BBC’s The Repair Shop, Matt Nickels, will open up his studio (Image: Scarborough Fringe Festival)

Speaking about this, Festival Manager for The Scarborough Fair, Catherine Goble, said: The Fringe programme is really exciting this year. We’re showcasing local, national and international talent in venues across the town, in a wide array of genres.

“There really is something for everyone.

“What sets Scarborough apart from bigger fringe festivals in the UK is the financial accessibility.

“All our shows are free or low-cost. We aim to mainly sell advance tickets, to ensure nobody is disappointed on the door, and we really encourage early purchases to guarantee a seat.

“Some of our venues are small capacity and we want as many people to enjoy the shows as possible.”

Carter Sampson is set to take centre stage on June 20 (Image: Scarborough Fringe Festival)

Scarborough Fringe is part of The Scarborough Fair, a year-round culture and sports programme.

The festival’s line up includes a performance by Aidan Jones, an Australian pianist who combines his love of stand-up comedy with his music – a performance hailed by The Guardian as “side-splittingly funny” on June 19.

Meanwhile, chart-topping singer Carter Sampson is set to take centre stage on June 20 at the Woodend Gallery & Studios, with resident glass expert on the BBC’s The Repair Shop, Matt Nickels, opening up his Studio 26 – where he works alongside established Scarborough artist Rachel Welford – on July 11.

Three local theatre groups will also be performing shows – all written, directed and performed by local creatives.

For younger audiences, the Astro Dog Planetarium is inviting families to join them for an immersive solar system experience at the Scarborough Market Hall Mezzanine on June 20.

In total, 115 events are signed up to appear at the festival.  

For more and a full programme of events, please see here.