Recognised as an integral part of the Edinburgh festival scene since 1996, The Herald Angels Awards have been celebrating innovation and excellence across the spectrum of artistic activity from the various festivals including: The International Festival; The Fringe; The Jazz & Blues Festival and The Edinburgh International Book Festival. The awards have been bestowed upon some of the world's most illustrious names, a full roll of honour can be found in the Previous Winners section.

The Herald Angels Awards ceremonies take place in the heart of Edinburgh, every Saturday morning during August, and are a key date in the festival calendar. Each week the winners are revealed by a guest presenter while the audience makes up a who’s who of the arts world.

Herald Angels are awarded to the best of the festival’s performers, venues and backstage crew who have managed to impress The Herald's panel of arts critics. In outstanding cases, the panel may award an Archangel - the highest honour presented at the ceremony. While little Devils are awarded to those who have overcome adversity, or in the true traditions of the festival, have demonstrated a 'show must go on' attitude.

This year for the first time a Herald Cherub award will be presented to the overall winner of The Herald and Edinburgh International Festival’s Young Critic scheme. This initiative introduces high school students to the process of arts criticism through reviewing performances at the Festival with the top four reviews being printed in The Herald.

For the past 6 years, The Herald Angel Awards have been sponsored by the Bank of Scotland, continuing their reputation as a major supporter of the arts in Scotland. This partnership between The Herald and the Bank of Scotland promises to keep the tradition of The Herald Angels alive, recognising those who play a part in delivering a memorable festival experience for us all.