Emma Mykytyn A new outdoor food, drink and entertainment destination is set to launch in the heart of Edinburgh this summer, as the team behind the popular Neighbourgood Market in Stockbridge prepares to take over the iconic Ross Bandstand in Princes Street Gardens.
Following a successful bid with the City of Edinburgh Council, the operators of Neighbourgood Market have been awarded the venue for up to four years and will launch Neighbourgood Gardens from 23 July until 31 August 2026.
Set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, the new festival hub will combine some of Scotland’s best independent food and drink traders with a packed programme of live performances throughout the Edinburgh Festival season.
Building on the community-focused atmosphere that has made Neighbourgood Market a favourite in Stockbridge, the Princes Street Gardens venue will host daily entertainment on the Ross Bandstand, including live music, Fringe finale performances, youth music showcases and a range of cultural events.
Cold Town Brewery Partnership
Edinburgh’s own Cold Town Brewery has joined the project as a key partner, extending its successful relationship with the Neighbourgood team from the Stockbridge site.
Festival-goers will be able to enjoy a selection of award-winning beers from the brewery’s portfolio while taking in performances in one of the capital’s most recognisable outdoor settings. Named after nearby Calton Hill, Cold Town Brewery has become one of Edinburgh’s most popular independent breweries and will provide a distinctly local drinks offering throughout the summer.
Bringing New Life to an Iconic Venue
Preston Mommsen of Neighbourgood Market said:
«”We’re really excited to be awarded this iconic venue underneath Edinburgh Castle. Princes Street Gardens is a wonderful location and we are working hard with Cold Town Brewery to ensure we add to the overall offering of the gardens with local, Scottish food, drink and musical performances.”»
Margaret Graham, Culture and Communities Convener at the City of Edinburgh Council, welcomed the announcement:
«”The Ross Bandstand and West Princes Street Gardens are among our most iconic cultural and historic public spaces, right in the heart of Edinburgh, and we’re eager that they continue to be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. With a strong line-up of performances and a range of independent food and drink traders, Neighbourgood Gardens will be a welcome addition to the venue.”»
Irma Jansen of Cold Town Brewery added:
«”We’re absolutely thrilled to be extending our partnership with the team behind Neighbourgood Market at this exciting new location, Neighbourgood Gardens. As an Edinburgh-based brewery, it’s fantastic to see Cold Town’s beers being served in such a landmark setting during one of Edinburgh’s busiest and most exciting times of the year.”»
What Visitors Can Expect
Neighbourgood Gardens will operate seven days a week from 11am until 10pm, offering free entry and a lively programme of entertainment throughout the festival season.
Visitors can expect:
– Independent Scottish food traders
– Local craft beer from Cold Town Brewery
– Daily live music performances
– Fringe finale events
– Youth music showcases
– Family-friendly entertainment
– Festival atmosphere in the heart of the city
Further event announcements are expected in the coming weeks.
Performers, musicians and arts groups interested in appearing at the Ross Bandstand during the festival period are invited to contact the organisers directly via info@theneighbourgood.market.
For updates and performance announcements, follow @neighbourgoodgardens on Instagram.
