A slice of Finland lands in the heart of Edinburgh this August as Lonkero – Finland’s iconic long drink – takes over the Summerhall courtyard for the duration of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Named The Guardian’s “Drink of Summer 2025”, Lonkero is serving up more than just crisp pints – it’s delivering Nordic style, artistic flair, and a generous dash of community spirit.
A Finnish Takeover at Summerhall
In a bold celebration of art, culture, and community, Lonkero has transformed the courtyard of Summerhall into an immersive social space, complete with artist-led installations, live performances, and a charitable initiative that supports the venue’s independent arts programme.
Working with Ross Blair, founder of Edinburgh-based art and tech studio TrenchOne Industries, Lonkero has reimagined the courtyard with urban textures, playful geometry, and a Nordic twist. Think of it as part social hub, part art installation – the perfect Fringe hangout for fans of fresh ideas and fresh drinks.
Festival-goers can sip on ice-topped pints of Lonkero, a fruity, spirit-based long drink best known as Finland’s national summer refresher. At 4.7% ABV, it’s light, zesty, and, as the brand proudly puts it, “refreshingly not beer.”
Every Pint Supports Independent Arts
Beyond the visuals and the vibes, Lonkero is also putting its values into action. It has kick-started Summerhall’s annual fundraiser with a £1,000 donation, and will continue to support the venue with a 25p donation for every pint of Lonkero sold throughout August.
“Summerhall is everything we love about Edinburgh – creative, bold and proudly independent,” says Joe Harris, co-founder of Lonkero. “This is more than a brand activation – it’s a love letter to community and creativity.”
Finnish Fringe Collaboration
Staying true to its roots, Lonkero is also partnering with Red Nose Company, Finland’s beloved clown theatre duo. They return to the Fringe with their 5-star show Don Quixote at Assembly Studio Two, blending physical comedy, literary parody, and Nordic charm.
“We wanted to create something that captures the energy of the Fringe while nodding to Lonkero’s Nordic roots,” adds Ross Blair. “It’s a mash-up of art, performance, social space and connection.”
Where to Find Lonkero
On draught at Summerhall – served with ice and a grapefruit slice
Also available at Teuchters Landing and Edinburgh Street Food
Or order online in six-packs (£17.99) or dozen-packs (£29.99) at lonkero.co.uk
Whether you’re a Fringe regular, an art lover, or just looking for something fresh in your pint glass, Lonkero at Summerhall is one of this summer’s unmissable stops. From bold visuals and quirky performances to supporting grassroots creativity – this is Nordic hospitality at its finest.
Lonkero Courtyard Takeover
Summerhall, Edinburgh – all Fringe long
lonkero.co.uk | summerhallarts.co.uk
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