“We’re excited to launch a second year of Postcode Pals and release thousands of discounted tickets for some of our very best shows to ensure local residents don’t miss out on Fringe fun,” say Katy and Karen Koren, Artistic Directors of Gilded Balloon, as they unveil a renewed opportunity for Edinburgh locals to dive into the 2025 Edinburgh Fringe at just £6 per ticket.
Running from 14 July to 6pm on 29 July, the Postcode Pals scheme offers residents in EH, KY, and FK postcodes access to over 125 shows across comedy, theatre, magic, family entertainment, and more, from 30 July to 3 August.
As Gilded Balloon celebrates its 40th Fringe, this initiative ensures locals can experience the world’s largest arts festival on their doorstep without entirely breaking the bank. With venues like Appleton Tower, Patter House, and the National Museum of Scotland transforming into pink-hued hubs of creativity, this is a great chance to bag some bargain tickets for some seriously great shows.
Edinburgh Fringe 2025: How to grab some bargain tickets
For Edinburgh locals, the Fringe can often feel like a double-edged sword: a global celebration of art that brings vibrancy (and money) to the city but often comes with high costs for performers and overburdened infrastructure.
Gilded Balloon’s Postcode Pals scheme is a grand attempt to tackle this head-on, offering £6 tickets (plus handling fees) for residents across Edinburgh, the Lothians, Fife, and Falkirk. Available exclusively through www.tickets.gildedballoon.co.uk, the scheme runs until 29 July, with a limited number of discounted tickets for performances from 30 July to 3 August.
Locals can secure up to two tickets per show and six per transaction by logging in and using the code PALS25 at checkout.
As Gilded Balloon anticipate their 40th Fringe anniversary, celebrating four decades of bringing some of the finest comedy, theatre, and more to the city every year, this scheme makes a fine present for their audiences.
This programme’s diversity—spanning stand-up, musicals, kids’ shows, and interactive experiences—means there’s something for everyone, whether you’re planning a family outing or a late-night laugh.
“With the world’s largest arts festival on our doorstep, it’s important as locals that we embrace it and we hope Postcode Pals helps local residents to get involved, grab a bargain and see some big names, or maybe take a chance on someone new!” the Korens enthuse, inviting Edinburgh residents to start their Fringe wish lists early.
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Top Shows to Catch with Postcode Pals
Gilded Balloon’s 2025 line-up is a treasure trove of talent for would be Postcode Pals to dive into. Comedy fans can snag £6 tickets to see big names like Rosie O’Donnell, making her Fringe debut, and Caroline Rhea, known as Aunt Hilda, alongside local star Michael Welch and rising talents like Alana Jackson and TikTok sensation Kim Blythe.
However, if you want theQR.co.uk’s top Gilded Balloon picks, look no further than the utterly outstanding ‘I Was On A Sitcom’ from recovering ‘The Middle’ star, Eden Sher, or John Robertson’s legendary, interactive RPG show, ‘The Dark Room’, complete with flamboyant potatoes for prizes. If it’s something musical you fancy, then everyone’s favourite floral heroine, ‘Potty the Plant’ is back for another year, armed with catchy tunes, and quirky, dark humour. Or, if it’s a joyful, and totally unique singalong, you can catch Britain’s Got Talent alumnus ‘Accordion Ryan’, and his…accordion.
International acts shine too, with New Zealand’s Sarah Bradley in Just Like Other Girls and NYC’s Liz Coin in Lizzy Sunshine. For a unique twist, interactive comedy shows like IKEA WARS—where comedians race to build furniture on stage—and Married at Fringe Sight, where audiences will decide who gets married by the end of the show. The mind boggles.
Families in Edinburgh and beyond can enjoy a range of kid-friendly shows perfect for a summer day out. Woody’s Bush Cabaret for Kids and A.L.Ex & the ImproBots: How to Train Your Robot offer interactive fun, while performers like Lindsey Cole and Mark Thompson bring world-class entertainment to keep both kids and parents engaged.
Theatre lovers can dive into compelling new works like Gail Watson’s Faye’s Red Lines or Motorhome Marilyn, starring EastEnders’ Michelle Collins. These shows, hosted across Gilded Balloon’s three venues, certainly reflect the Fringe’s trademarkeclectic spirit. By offering discounted tickets, Postcode Pals is encouraging folks to discover new artists alongside established stars.
The scheme’s limited run—ending 29 July—means act fast to secure tickets at www.tickets.gildedballoon.co.uk, especially as availability is capped.
A Pink-Hued Fringe for Edinburgh’s Heart
As Gilded Balloon marks its 40th year, its ‘Pals in Pink’ theme will transform Appleton Tower, Patter House, and the National Museum of Scotland into vibrant, pink-clad hubs. Don’t miss this chance to join the Fringe’s 40th anniversary—grab your £6 tickets before 29 July at www.tickets.gildedballoon.co.uk and make the most of one of the Fringe’s most valued institutions.
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