The Scottish Government has signalled its support for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo’s international ambitions, recognising the event’s cultural and economic value to Scotland, according to an exchange in the Scottish Parliament.

Speaking in Holyrood, Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture Angus Robertson praised the Tattoo’s 75th anniversary year, its first show under new creative director Alan Lane, and the £750,000 in charitable giving provided during 2025.

Robertson told MSPs that the Scottish Government-led Brand Scotland partnership continues to “maximise domestic and international opportunities to promote Scotland,” and said officials would soon meet Tattoo representatives “to explore further collaboration on international ambitions, building on previous partnership work such as tartan week and the Washington DC Tattoo in the USA.”

The exchange followed a question from Gordon MacDonald, SNP MSP for Edinburgh Pentlands, who highlighted that the Tattoo attracts more than 200,000 attendees each year, including large numbers of international visitors from over 100 countries. He asked whether the Cabinet Secretary agreed that the event plays a central role in boosting Scotland’s global profile and tourism industry.

Robertson responded that “VisitScotland works closely with the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo to promote Scotland internationally, using the event’s global profile to inspire overseas visitors to experience our culture and heritage.” He added that the collaboration is particularly valuable during “the Tattoo’s international tours and major showcases, such as tartan week in New York.”

The Cabinet Secretary emphasised that the Tattoo strengthens Scotland’s reputation as a “world-class events destination,” and supports “sustainable tourism” alongside Scotland’s wider portfolio of cultural events. He described the Tattoo as a key contributor to the country’s international image, showcasing “Scotland’s creativity, landscapes and warm welcome to visitors from around the world.”

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, which celebrated its diamond jubilee in 2020 and its 75th anniversary this year, remains one of Scotland’s most globally recognised cultural exports and its overseas tours and partnerships have become a focal point for promoting Scotland’s military heritage and performing arts sector on the international stage.

George Allison
George Allison is the founder and editor of the UK Defence Journal. He holds a degree in Cyber Security from Glasgow Caledonian University and specialises in naval and cyber security topics. George has appeared on national radio and television to provide commentary on defence and security issues. Twitter: @geoallison

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here