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- Adam Smith Festival of Ideas
Adam Smith Festival of Ideas
The Adam Smith Festival of Ideas is an annual celebration held in Kirkcaldy, the birthplace of one of Scotland’s greatest thinkers. Each year, it brings together inspiring speakers, creative voices, and curious minds to explore the ideas shaping our society, culture, and economy. From thought-provoking discussions to engaging cultural events, the festival honours Adam Smith’s enduring legacy while opening the door to bold, future-focused conversations.
What’s Special in 2026?
In 2026, the Festival of Ideas forms a central part of Scotland’s nationwide celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of The Wealth of Nations. Across four days, visitors can enjoy guided heritage tours, cultural entertainment, and gatherings that bring Smith’s spirit of inquiry to life.
The main event is the Future of the Economy Symposium on Friday, 5th June 2026, held at the Adam Smith Theatre. This full-day symposium (10am–9pm) will feature:
- Round Table Presentations (10am–12pm): Experts from around the world share perspectives on Smith’s influence and relevance today.
- Panel Discussions on The Wealth of Nations (1pm–2.30pm): Leading authorities debate Smith’s ideas in the context of modern challenges.
- Masterclasses (3pm–4.30pm): Nobel Prize winners and global thought leaders offer interactive sessions.
- Flagship Evening Event – Future of the Economy (7pm–9pm): A high-profile discussion with economists, political leaders, and Nobel laureates exploring how Smith’s principles can guide us through today’s economic and political landscape.
This symposium is the intellectual heart of the festival and a rare opportunity to engage with some of the most influential voices shaping global economic thought.
Join Us
Everyone is warmly welcome to join. Spaces are limited, so secure your place now and be part of a conversation that honours Adam Smith’s legacy while looking ahead to the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.
Tickets for the Festival of Ideas will be released soon. Please visit Adam Smith Heratige Centre to stay updated and secure your place.
Accommodation in the Kirkcaldy Area
Whether you’re visiting for a short stay or planning to explore the area, here are some nearby accommodation options:
Best Western Balgeddie House Hotel
Please note other HOTELS are available in the area which may not be listed on our website. Click HERE
Self Catering Accommodation - Click HERE
There’s a range of dining options across the area to suit all tastes and budgets. With excellent independent, award winning restaurants using the best of Fife's local and seasonal produce.
Restaurants
Annapurna Gurkhas Restaurant - BOOK
Cafe Continental - BOOK
Maxin Restaurant - BOOK
La Gondola- BOOK
Pane E Vino - BOOK
Cafés
Fife is full of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Here are some suggestions for visitors:
History & Heritage
Outdoor and Indoor Activities
Getting Here
By Car
Adam Smith Theatre
- Postcode for GPS: KY1 1ET
- /// basin.jokes.actor
- Parking: Accessible parking spaces available at the front of the venue (x2 spaces). The venue has limited on-site parking. Additional public parking can be found behind Kirkcaldy Galleries / next to Kirkcaldy Train station (approx. 3 minute walk from venue).
Adam Smith Heritage Centre
- Postcode for GPS KY1 1HL
- /// chimp.decks.margin
- Parking: There are several public car parks all within 7 minute walking distance of the Centre, including Kirkcaldy Esplanade Car Park, Thistle Street Car Park, The Mercat Car Park.
Active Travel Routes & Facilities
- Walking and Cycling Paths: Kirkcaldy boasts a network of well-maintained walking and cycling paths that connect key locations throughout the town, including popular destinations like Kirkcaldy Galleries, Beveridge Park, and the waterfront. These routes offer safe, scenic options for active travel, making it easy for residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors while promoting a healthy, sustainable lifestyle
- Cycle Parking: To support cyclists, Kirkcaldy provides secure cycle parking facilities at various public buildings, parks, and transport hubs. Visitors and residents are encouraged to use these facilities, and access codes for secure bicycle shelters are typically available from reception desks or local council offices.
Public Transport Information
Bus Services
- Service X58: Operates between Edinburgh Bus Station and Kirkcaldy Bus Station. This service runs regularly roughly hourly throughout the day.
- Service JET 747: Edinburgh Airport to Halbeath Park & Ride (or Ferrytoll Park & Ride in some cases). The 747 runs fairly regularly.
- Service 7: From Dunfermline Bus Station to Kirkcaldy Bus Station, buses run hourly during the day
For more detailed and real-time updates, visit the Stagecoach East Scotland website or use the Stagecoach Bus App
Rail Services
Kirkcaldy Train Station is a 5 minute walk from the Adam Smith Theatre. Trains are well connected to Dundee, Dunfermline, Edinburgh and beyond.
Kirkcaldy is perfectly placed on the East Coast Main Line, giving visitors fast, direct train links from Edinburgh, Dundee, Aberdeen and beyond – plus easy access to the Caledonian Sleeper for overnight journeys from London.
