
Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair 2026 - Opening Eve
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View all →About This Event
The Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair 2026 commences with a free Opening Eve on Friday 23 October from 4pm, held within the historic Greyfriars Kirk in the city’s Old Town. This evening signals the start of a major festival uniting contemporary artists from across the globe, presenting a diverse array of styles and mediums throughout the venue’s atmospheric interiors. Visitors can discover works by both established and emerging talents, with the fair’s breadth and variety fostering a lively, celebratory mood. The event is free to attend, offering an accessible gateway to the weekend’s programme. Greyfriars Kirk’s iconic setting lends a distinctive character to the occasion, seamlessly blending modern art with centuries-old architecture.
Set in the iconic Greyfriars Kirk, in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, the fair brings together contemporary artists from across the world
Experience one of Edinburgh’s most distinctive cultural events at the Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair, set within the historic surroundings of Greyfriars Kirk in the heart of the Old Town. Bringing together an exceptional roster of established and emerging artists, the fair offers a thoughtfully curated selection of contemporary painting, sculpture, photography, illustration and mixed-media works.
Opening Times
Friday 23 October — Free Admission
Opening Evening 16pm – 21pm
Champagne Reception* 18 – 21pm (Invitation or Ticket)
Saturday 24 October — Free Admission
General Admission 10am – 18pm
Award Ceremony 17.30pm
Enjoy complimentary access to the art fair throughout the day.
Join us for the elegant Champagne Reception at the Opening Evening of Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair on Friday 23 October, from 18:00 to 21:00. Set amid contemporary paintings, sculpture and mixed-media works in the historic Greyfriars Kirk, the evening invites you to mingle with artists and fellow art-lovers while enjoying a curated selection of champagne.
The fair also features the prestigious Henry Raeburn Prize, named in honour of the celebrated Scottish portrait painter. The award ceremony will take place on Saturday 24 October at 17:30, recognising outstanding creativity and technical excellence in artists whose work embodies Raeburn’s enduring mastery of light, character and composition.
The Venue - Greyfriars Kirk
Greyfriars Kirk is one of Edinburgh’s most atmospheric and culturally significant landmarks, offering a setting that blends history, character, and artistic potential in a way few venues can match. Founded in the early 17th century, the Kirk has stood at the heart of the Old Town for generations, embodying the architectural charm and historic depth that define this part of the city.
Located just steps from the Grassmarket, the National Museum of Scotland, and the city’s most iconic streets, Greyfriars Kirk sits at a crossroads of culture and footfall. Millions visit the surrounding area every year, drawn by its mix of historic sites, vibrant arts venues, and the unmistakable atmosphere that defines Edinburgh.
Just outside the church lies the renowned Greyfriars Kirkyard, celebrated for its historic graves and monuments, including distinctive 17th- and 18th-century tombs that reflect Edinburgh’s rich past.
Greyfriars Kirk
Greyfriars Place / 26A Candlemaker Row
Edinburgh EH1 2QQ
Scotland
Description supplied by the event organiser.
Staying overnight?
Hotels within walking distance of Greyfriars Kirk.
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Frequently asked questions
Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair 2026 - Opening Eve takes place on Friday, 23 October 2026 at 16:00.
Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair 2026 - Opening Eve is held at Greyfriars Kirk in Edinburgh (Greyfriars Place, Edinburgh, EH1 2QQ).
Entry to Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair 2026 - Opening Eve is free.
Yes — hotels within walking distance of Greyfriars Kirk can be compared using the accommodation search further down this page.
Tickets for Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair 2026 - Opening Eve can be booked via Eventbrite using the "Check Tickets & Live Prices" button on this page, which opens the official booking site in a new tab.

Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair 2026 - Opening Eve
Editorial Summary
The Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair 2026 commences with a free Opening Eve on Friday 23 October from 4pm, held within the historic Greyfriars Kirk in the city’s Old Town. This evening signals the start of a major festival uniting contemporary artists from across the globe, presenting a diverse array of styles and mediums throughout the venue’s atmospheric interiors. Visitors can discover works by both established and emerging talents, with the fair’s breadth and variety fostering a lively, celebratory mood. The event is free to attend, offering an accessible gateway to the weekend’s programme. Greyfriars Kirk’s iconic setting lends a distinctive character to the occasion, seamlessly blending modern art with centuries-old architecture.
This summary was automatically generated from event data sourced from official ticketing providers.
Organiser’s full description
Set in the iconic Greyfriars Kirk, in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, the fair brings together contemporary artists from across the world
Experience one of Edinburgh’s most distinctive cultural events at the Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair, set within the historic surroundings of Greyfriars Kirk in the heart of the Old Town. Bringing together an exceptional roster of established and emerging artists, the fair offers a thoughtfully curated selection of contemporary painting, sculpture, photography, illustration and mixed-media works.
Opening Times
Friday 23 October — Free Admission
Opening Evening 16pm – 21pm
Champagne Reception* 18 – 21pm (Invitation or Ticket)
Saturday 24 October — Free Admission
General Admission 10am – 18pm
Award Ceremony 17.30pm
Enjoy complimentary access to the art fair throughout the day.
Join us for the elegant Champagne Reception at the Opening Evening of Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair on Friday 23 October, from 18:00 to 21:00. Set amid contemporary paintings, sculpture and mixed-media works in the historic Greyfriars Kirk, the evening invites you to mingle with artists and fellow art-lovers while enjoying a curated selection of champagne.
The fair also features the prestigious Henry Raeburn Prize, named in honour of the celebrated Scottish portrait painter. The award ceremony will take place on Saturday 24 October at 17:30, recognising outstanding creativity and technical excellence in artists whose work embodies Raeburn’s enduring mastery of light, character and composition.
The Venue - Greyfriars Kirk
Greyfriars Kirk is one of Edinburgh’s most atmospheric and culturally significant landmarks, offering a setting that blends history, character, and artistic potential in a way few venues can match. Founded in the early 17th century, the Kirk has stood at the heart of the Old Town for generations, embodying the architectural charm and historic depth that define this part of the city.
Located just steps from the Grassmarket, the National Museum of Scotland, and the city’s most iconic streets, Greyfriars Kirk sits at a crossroads of culture and footfall. Millions visit the surrounding area every year, drawn by its mix of historic sites, vibrant arts venues, and the unmistakable atmosphere that defines Edinburgh.
Just outside the church lies the renowned Greyfriars Kirkyard, celebrated for its historic graves and monuments, including distinctive 17th- and 18th-century tombs that reflect Edinburgh’s rich past.
Greyfriars Kirk
Greyfriars Place / 26A Candlemaker Row
Edinburgh EH1 2QQ
Scotland
Description supplied by the event organiser.
❓ Frequently asked questions
When is Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair 2026 - Opening Eve?
Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair 2026 - Opening Eve takes place on Friday, 23 October 2026 at 16:00.
Where is Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair 2026 - Opening Eve taking place?
Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair 2026 - Opening Eve is held at Greyfriars Kirk in Edinburgh (Greyfriars Place, Edinburgh, EH1 2QQ).
How much are tickets for Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair 2026 - Opening Eve?
Entry to Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair 2026 - Opening Eve is free.
Is there anywhere to stay near Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair 2026 - Opening Eve?
Yes — hotels within walking distance of Greyfriars Kirk can be compared using the accommodation search further down this page.
How do I get tickets for Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair 2026 - Opening Eve?
Tickets for Greyfriars Edinburgh Art Fair 2026 - Opening Eve can be booked via Eventbrite using the "Check Tickets & Live Prices" button on this page, which opens the official booking site in a new tab.
🏨 Staying overnight?
Hotels within walking distance of Greyfriars Kirk
Ad · Stay22 affiliate link
Price
Free Entry
Date
Until Friday, 23 October 2026
Time
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