Admittedly some of the shows that are billed as 'free', particularly at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, ask for a donation after the show - but if you don't like them you don't have to put your hand in your pocket.
Meanwhile other events really are free, including a great selection at the Edinburgh International Festival.
And if you're a bit clever about it you can enjoy other highlights without spending a penny - from cinema screenings to art galleries.
Here are 12 of them.
And if you're a bit clever about it you can enjoy other highlights without spending a penny - from cinema screenings to art galleries.