6 Top military tattoo events around the world

If you’re looking to attend an event that celebrates culture through music and dance, look no further. These spectacular gatherings highlight a country’s military prowess and blend history, tradition, and patriotism. Around the globe, each city puts its own unique spin on these festivals, bringing together drumlines, pipers, and buglers, and uniting military music with modern sounds, dance, and more.

The tradition dates back to the 1600s, during the 30 Years’ War, when a nightly curfew sounded in military towns, signalling innkeepers to stop serving soldiers and troops to return to their barracks. The term tattoo evolved from the Dutch “doe den tap toe,” meaning turn off the taps. 

Over time, English speakers adopted both the word and the curfew ritual. Eventually, the curfew call became grand entertainment, celebrating the armed forces’ cultural heritage.

For travellers, attending one of these events is an unforgettable experience and a wonderful way to immerse yourself in a country's history. These festivals feature outstanding performances by military bands and honour the commitment of veterans and first responders.

Not sure where to go? Here are the top six events celebrating military music and tradition around the world.

Nova Scotia Tattoo, Canada

The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo is Canada's largest annual indoor show of its kind. It welcomes military performers, dancers, and musicians from across the country and the world, all coming together on the Canadian stage. This dynamic festival fuses incredible talent with a strong focus on military heritage.

Held yearly in Halifax, the event kicks off summer on Canada's east coast. Over 2,000 performers participate, blending modern spectacle with traditional celebration. Audiences thrill to march-pasts, colourful flags, military drummers, and more. What truly sets the Nova Scotia festival apart is its round-theatre performance style, complete with costumes, props, and theatrical flair.

Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Scotland

Scotland’s Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is one of the most famous and spectacular military music events worldwide. Drawing over 200,000 attendees each year, it’s also the largest of its kind. Each August, visitors and locals alike are drawn to Edinburgh Castle for a breathtaking spectacle.

The show is renowned for its creative approach and global repertoire. Beyond military bands, you’ll enjoy dancers, pipers, and a dazzling fireworks finale. With a unique theme each year, every show offers something new, fostering community spirit and connecting audiences with Edinburgh’s cultural roots.

Virginia International Tattoo, USA

The Virginia International Tattoo stands as the largest event of its kind in the United States. Hosted in Norfolk, Virginia—home to the world’s largest Navy base and NATO’s only North American headquarters—this gathering is a stunning display of international unity through music and pageantry, showcasing over 1,000 performers.

Since 1997, the festival has wowed audiences with its energetic blend of massed pipes and drums, stirring reenactments, and crowd-pleasing acts like the DrumLine Battle. Each April, more than 35,000 people gather for a celebration honouring the contributions of military personnel.

Basel Tattoo, Switzerland

The Swiss Armed Forces Festival, held in Basel, is the second-largest military music gathering after the Royal Edinburgh Tattoo. Since 2006, this spectacular event has been staged every three years and features outstanding bands and musicians from around the globe—including talent from Australia, France, and Germany. Highlights include impeccably choreographed marching drills, a breathtaking helicopter display, and lively parades that take the festivities to city streets.

Drawing nearly 120,000 spectators, the Basel event is known for its diverse soundscape—blending classical pieces, rock, pop, and the iconic Scottish Highland pipes. You'll also spot various Royal Guards adding to the spectacle.

Beating Retreat Ceremony, India

New Delhi's Beating Retreat Ceremony is a showcase of the Indian military’s discipline and musical tradition. Held annually on January 29, it marks the close of India's Republic Day celebrations and follows an 18th-century tradition when military drummers summoned guards at the end of their shifts.

A key part of the Republic Day festivities since 1955, the Beating Retreat is performed by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The grandeur of the event is amplified by its stunning setting before Rashtrapati Bhavan and the diverse mix of military musical ensembles.

Oslo Military Tattoo, Norway

The Oslo Military Tattoo is a vibrant display of Norwegian and international military bands and drill teams, celebrating Norway’s martial traditions. Taking place every two years since 1994, this festival highlights the nation’s commitment to cooperation and solidarity.

Spectators are treated to an impressive array of performances featuring Norway’s armed forces and guest artists, with marches, drills, and a special performance by His Majesty the King's Royal Guard. The event offers a wonderful opportunity to experience both Norwegian culture and the majestic rhythms of military music.

Pack your bags

Want to attend a Military Tattoo? Book an appointment with a CAA Travel Consultant to start your planning.