Get ready for a great family weekend in Edinburgh! We've found some unique events for your 3-14 year olds on Saturday, February 7th, and Sunday, February 8th, 2026, from orchestral fun to nature walks.
See our top picks
Map Festival
National Library of Scotland
A full day dedicated to all things cartographic - free entry!
Edinburgh Nuclear Bunker Tour
Barnton Bunker
Go underground to explore Scotland's Cold War history (great for teens!).
Edinburgh Zoo's Giant Lanterns (Final Day)
Edinburgh Zoo
A magical, enchanting evening light walk to end the weekend.
· February 7
5SCOTTISH CHAMBER ORCHESTRA: THE GREAT GRUMPY GABOON : Join the Scottish Chamber Orchestra for a fun musical adventure about the Grumpy Gaboon and his friends! It’s a super joyful way to introduce younger kids to live orchestral music with lots of storytelling.A fantastic, fun introduction to a live orchestra experience tailored perfectly for young children.
EDINBURGH ZOO'S GIANT LANTERNS (LAST DAY) : It's the final weekend for the amazing aquatic-themed lantern trail at the Zoo! Wander through the grounds as they light up with huge, colourful sea creature lanterns.This is a stunning, limited-run visual spectacle before it closes down for the season – don't miss the last day!
MAP FESTIVALFREE : Head to the National Library for a whole day dedicated to maps! You can go behind the scenes and discover all the secrets hidden within their incredible cartographic collections. Could be fun for older kids interested in geography or puzzles.A rare, one-day event focused on maps, offering a unique, free, educational, and indoor activity.
MANIPULATE FESTIVAL: EUROPE, MEINE LIEBE, MON AMOUR : Check out this playful and surreal visual theatre journey from the Manipulate Festival. It blends dance, masks, and living art for a joyful celebration of imagination.A unique, short-run festival event offering something truly different from standard weekend fare.
EDINBURGH NUCLEAR BUNKER TOUR : Take a fascinating step back into the Cold War! This tour explores a real-life nuclear bunker hidden near the city, which older kids and teens might find super cool.A cool, specific historical tour that is running this weekend, perfect for older, curious kids.
· February 8
2EDINBURGH ZOO'S GIANT LANTERNS (FINAL DAY) : Last chance to see the spectacular outdoor lantern trail at the Zoo with its amazing aquatic theme! Stroll through the grounds filled with dazzling jellyfish and sea turtles before it finishes.This is the very last day for this popular, limited-run winter light show, so it's a great way to end the weekend.
MANIPULATE FESTIVAL: EUROPE, MEINE LIEBE, MON AMOUR (POP-UP)FREE : Catch a pop-up performance of the surreal visual theatre piece from the Manipulate Festival right inside the National Museum of Scotland. It’s a free, short burst of creativity while you’re exploring!It's a free, short performance happening inside a major attraction, making it an easy and unexpected addition to your Sunday plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Edinburgh this weekend?
This weekend (Feb 07-08) there are a few options like the Map Festival at the National Library of Scotland on Saturday, and a free Manipulate Festival Pop-up performance at the National Museum of Scotland on Sunday.
Are there any special shows on for younger kids (under 8s)?
Yes! The Scottish Chamber Orchestra: The Great Grumpy Gaboon is on Saturday and Sunday afternoon at the Assembly Rooms, which is designed as a perfect, fun introduction to orchestral music for ages 4-8.
What is a unique, limited-run activity happening this weekend?
The Edinburgh Zoo's Giant Lanterns event is in its final weekend (Sat 7th & Sun 8th), offering a spectacular evening walk through the Zoo illuminated by aquatic-themed lights.
