5 August 2010Last updated at 01:30

In pictures: Edinburgh Festival 2010

Festival-goers are already descending on Edinburgh as the Fringe gets under way.

The Fringe officially begins on Friday but many performers are already promoting their shows.

This woman from Octavia is looking for people to come to her show at C Venues.

Comedian Sean Hegarty promotes his free show in the shadow of St Giles Cathedral on the Royal Mile.

A bronze human statue busks outside the City Chambers on Edinburgh Royal Mile.

A performer juggles with fire on the Royal Mile.

An actor promotes his show Down The Rabbit Hole, on at C Venues.

An actress hands out flyers for her show.

A show advert on Playfair Steps in the centre of Edinburgh.

Actors from Babbling Comedy attract attention on the Royal Mile.

The Pleasance Courtyard is one of the social hubs of the Fringe.

The Pleasance also has an area to entertain the children and a large range of shows for kids.

The Udderbelly is another of the major festival venues.

The magnificent McEwan Hall is part of the Underbelly's Pasture venue.

Brazil, Brazil perform a preview show outside the Udderbelly

Edinburgh, Fife & East Scotland