Why the Edinburgh Tattoo measures success by what it gives back
Economic success and social impact are not competing priorities; they are mutually reinforcing, writes Jason Barrett
For many people around the world, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a spectacle of music, precision and performance set against the iconic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. It is a celebration of tradition and talent that brings together performers and audiences from across the globe. But for me, the true measure of the Tattoo’s success extends far beyond the Castle Esplanade – it’s what happens after.
As one of Scotland’s most recognisable cultural organisations, we have the privilege of connecting nations, communities, and individuals through a shared experience. That influence carries responsibility. Cultural organisations possess a unique convening power, the ability to unite people across borders, generations and backgrounds. The question is not simply how far that influence reaches, but what we choose to do with it.
At the Tattoo, we believe success should create lasting benefits for the communities that support us. That is why charitable giving sits at the heart of our mission. Since our inception, we have donated more than £14.5 million to charitable causes, supporting organisations that provide vital assistance to service personnel, veterans, families and communities across Scotland and beyond.
We remain deeply committed to giving back. Our charitable contributions, supporting military and arts communities, are an essential part of our purpose. As we grow, so too will our ability to support those who inspire and sustain the cultural and service traditions at the heart of the Tattoo.
This year marks a significant milestone. Thanks to the support of our audiences, partners and supporters, we contributed more than £1.5m to charitable causes. It is a figure we had hoped to achieve in 2026 and reaching it ahead of schedule demonstrates what can be accomplished when a global audience comes together behind a common purpose.
In 2025 alone, 15 charities benefitted from Tattoo funding. Alongside this, we have maintained a decade-long commitment to supporting military charities, helping to ensure that those who have served their country receive the support they deserve. Through our charitable partners, funding is also to directed arts charities supporting Scottish traditional arts. Through the Tattoo Traditional Arts Programme, we regularly host workshops, participation events, and lessons, providing grassroots support to nurture and inspire the next generation of Highland dancers, bagpipers, drummers and fiddlers.
The Tattoo's charitable contribution is only one part of a wider story. Each year, the Tattoo attracts nearly 230,000 visitors, generating significant economic activity for the city of Edinburgh and Scotland as a whole. Hotels, restaurants, retailers, transport providers and small businesses benefit from visitors who travel to experience the Tattoo and the wider festival season. In 2025, Edinburgh’s festivals delivered an estimated £558m economic impact for Edinburgh and £852m for Scotland at large.
The economic impact is substantial, but it should not be viewed in isolation. Economic success and social impact are not competing priorities; they are mutually reinforcing. Strong cultural organisations create jobs, attract tourism and generate revenue. When organisations reinvest part of that success into charitable causes and community initiatives, the benefits are amplified across society.
This philosophy is reflected not only in our financial contributions but also in the commitment of our people. Hundreds of performers and volunteers contribute their time and expertise each year to make the Tattoo possible. In addition, our staff are encouraged to support causes that matter to them through dedicated volunteering days. Their contribution demonstrates that impact is created not only through fundraising, but through service and community spirit.
As we look ahead, our ambition is clear. Our focus now is on sustaining and growing impact for future generations of local and international societies. We want to continue transforming international goodwill into meaningful outcomes, ensuring that every success enjoyed by the Tattoo creates tangible benefits for the communities we serve.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has always been about bringing people together. Today, that purpose matters more than ever. By combining cultural influence with charitable action and economic contribution, we can demonstrate the positive role major organisations can play in society. The greatest legacy of the Tattoo will not simply be what happens on the Esplanade each August, but the difference it makes long after the final note has been played.
Jason Barrett, CEO, Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo