Edinburgh Tattoo
Highly-charged military marching in a stirring setting (Aug)
While military marching bands have maybe fallen out of favour as attractions, Edinburgh's Military Tattoo is as popular as ever – and pretty much sells out for its three-week run every year.
The key is doubtless the dusk setting beside Edinburgh Castle, but the choreography is also hugely impressive and the nightly fireworks a superb finale.
The lament of the solo piper on the battlements is another great highlight – which makes it easy to see why this spectacle is a source of national pride for many.
Every year the program also includes guest performances by marching bands and musicians from the armed forces of other countries
The audience is every bit as international and the event's popularity means it can be hard to get a seat. If you're drawing a blank, try approaching bus drivers of coaches that drop groups off on the streets outside. They sometimes have spare tickets.