Inspired by the incredible popularity of crime fiction in all its forms, by the fantastic contribution that Scottish writers make, by our love affair with Nordic Noir, on the page and on screen, and most of all inspired by Aberdeen, which is the perfect backdrop for the festival – steeped in history, atmospheric, quirky and ... Read more
One of a host of fantastic contest for young pipers aged Under 18 across the country every year. It aims to encourage all young players to compete, with chanter competitions through to Piobaireachd events at the National Piping Centre. Info: www.thepipingcentre.co.uk
The Gaelic language will be celebrated as the annual initiative reaches its milestone fifth year of highlighting Gaelic's vitality and enduring presence as a living language. Under the banner Use It or Lose It (Cleachd i no caill i) – and organisers are encouraging people across Scotland and the global diaspora to get behind the ... Read more
Glasgow is home to one of the friendliest and vibrant film festivals in the world. Our wide-ranging programme celebrates the diversity of global filmmaking, offering a fantastic showcase for the best of Scottish cinema alongside films from every corner of the world. Info: www.glasgowfilmfest.org
Come along and enjoy a gloriously unique programme of traditional Scottish music – reels, strathspeys, jigs, marches & slow airs at Perth Concert Hall. Info: www.sfo.org.uk
Bringing together home cooks, amateurs, and professional chefs in an epic battle to create the most mouthwatering bowl of Scotland’s iconic Cullen Skink. Info: https://discovercullen.com/events/cullen-skink-world-championships-2026
Scotland's funniest improv event, a four-day festival in celebration of improv. Info: www.edimprovfest.com
The route starts alongside the banks of the River Ness near the centre of Inverness and takes in many of the city’s icons. A warm Highland welcome awaits all participants as they approach the finish line. Info: www.invernesshalfmarathon.co.uk
Scottish talent and emerging comedians from around the world offer a diverse array of comedic styles, including stand-up, improv, sketch, and alternative comedy, at various venues in the funniest city in the world. Info: www.glasgowcomedyfestival.com
With a global reputation for hosting an innovative, inspirational festival showcasing poetry from around the world. The festival theme for 2026 is ‘You Are Not Alone’ and with more than 70 poets from 7 countries and over 75 events across three packed days centred around the Byre Theatre, StAnza’s buzzing festival hub. The festival features ... Read more
Fun, friendly and packed with fabulous contemporary visual art – Borders Art Fair returns in 2026 with 80 artists, makers and galleries, making it one of the biggest ever. While many of the exhibitors are from the Borders, others come from all over Scotland and the rest of the UK. Info: www.bordersartfair.com
Scotland’s only silent film festival returns to its historic home, showcasing restored classics, live musical accompaniments and engaging talks, at The Hippodrome. Info: www.hippodromecinema.co.uk/hippfest
The exhibition brings together paintings by Samuel John Peploe, Francis Campbell Boileau Cadell, George Leslie Hunter and John Duncan Fergusson, collectively known as The Scottish Colourists. The exhibition features further masterworks from Dundee and Edinburgh Universities, the Hugo Burge Foundation and The Royal Scottish Academy at Perth Art Gallery. Info: www.culturepk.org.uk/perthartgallery
Concerts, courses, workshops and more at George Watson’s College. Info: www.harpfestival.co.uk
Recognised as one of the top six street art festivals in the world, Nuart Aberdeen combines large-scale murals with intimate, thought-provoking pieces, creating a dynamic experience for residents and visitors alike. A vibrant street art festival that brings global artists to transform the city with stunning murals and installations, creating a lasting cultural legacy. Info: ... Read more
A fabulous long weekend of Scottish music featuring folk-rock bands, fiddle, accordion, dance and ceilidh bands. Info: www.facebook.com/MullMusicFestival
A cycle sportive taking place around iconic Loch Ness, offering the chance to cycle 66 miles around the loch on traffic free roads. Info: www.etapelochness.com
From coopering masterclasses and BBQs to wildlife walks, the Dram Train, music events and canoeing down the river whilst stopping for a Speyside malt, the Festival is packed with a range of diverse events. Info: www.spiritofspeyside.com
Celebrating Shetland’s rich musicianship at the UK’s most northerly folk festival. Info: www.shetlandfolkfestival.com
A living, dynamic reinterpretation and modernisation of an ancient Iron Age Celtic ritual, bringing people together to acknowledge and revel in the birth of the Summer and the fertility of the land, and is the largest of its kind at Calton Hill. Info: www.beltane.org
The very best traditional music from Scotland and around the world. Info: www.edinburghtradfest.com
The finest in folk & traditional music in beautiful South West Scotland. Info: www.girvanfolkfestival.org.uk
This exciting event brings together tartans, pipe bands, dancers, musicians, organisations, and individuals from Edinburgh, as well as across Scotland, and beyond - to celebrate the country's rich heritage, tartans, culture and inclusivity. Info: www.handupevents.co.uk/tartan-parade-scotland
At this year’s Games, there will be pipe band and drum major competitions; highland dance competitions; heavyweight events; mini highland games; children’s entertainment; gift and craft stalls – a great day out for all the family. Info: www.inverclyde.gov.uk
A gathering of whisky and Islay fans from across the globe with walks, history talks, whisky events, Ceilidh's and more. Info: www.feisile.co.uk
Scotland’s premier art and craft Open Studios event at locations across the region. Info: www.spring-fling.co.uk
Leading international and Scottish artists set to appear alongside home-grown Orcadian talent, brilliant weekend of music and fun. Info: www.orkneyfolkfestival.com
There are plenty of other attractions, such as highland dancing, tug o’ war, solo piping, trade stands and refreshments to provide a fun day out for all the family, at Blair Castle. Info: https://atholl-estates.co.uk/events/atholl-gathering
A weekend of music, art, dance, family fun, island heritage and well-being activities on the community owned Isle of Gigha. Info: www.thesoundofgigha.co.uk
With the latest fiction, current affairs, history, and politics, along with personalities from sport, music and entertainment, there is something for every age and interest with more than 100 events. Info: www.bordersbookfestival.org
This is the 33rd anniversary of the event and a flotilla of heritage boats from across the country, will drop anchor in the historic harbour of Portsoy for a weekend of celebrations. Info: www.stbfportsoy.org
Clan Chief Andrew Carmichael of Carmichael invites you to the 13th Clan Carmichael International Gathering at the source of the Carmichael name Scotland at the Carmichael Estate, Scottish Borders. Info: www.carmichael.co.uk
Scotland's largest farming and countryside showcase, located just outside Edinburgh. See horse and cattle showing, try mouth-watering local produce, browse arts and crafts and more. Info: www.royalhighlandshow.org
Marking its 50th anniversary, Orkney’s iconic midsummer arts festival presents music, theatre, literature, and visual arts in stunning island settings. Info: www.stmagnusfestival.com
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of the Border Reivers with the Teviotdale Steel Bonnets as they set up camp at the iconic Gilnockie Tower. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the past, this unforgettable event offers a hands-on experience that will transport you back to the turbulent times of the 16th ... Read more
Join Strathclyde Institute for Genealogical Studies for a 2-day academic conference; Beyond the Family Tree: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on AI, DNA, Education and Community in Genealogy. Explore a variety of topics, including genetic genealogy, history, and genealogy, with parallel streams featuring keynote presentations and guest lectures—giving you the freedom to choose the sessions that inspire you ... Read more
A weekend of Celtic and Scottish folk music held annually on the Island of Tiree in the Inner Hebrides. Info: www.tireemusicfestival.co.uk
One of the Highlands’ most iconic summer events, proudly celebrating generations of tradition, strength and Scottish identity at Bught Park. The Games provide the perfect stage to showcase the very best of Highland culture — from world-class sport and music to the hospitality and spirit that make the Highlands so distinctive. Info: www.invernesshighlandgames.com
This internationally renowned event has a unique setting in the Scottish Hebridean island of Lewis, the heartland of the Gaelic language and culture. HebCelt mixes the best local talent with leading Scottish, UK and world artists and brings together household names and emerging talent to provide a feast of music to appeal to all ages. ... Read more
Summer School, an action-packed four weeks of dancing in the historic town of St Andrews. Come and join with dancers from around the world and be led by some of the best of Scottish Country Dance teachers and musicians. Not an RSCDS member? No problem, Summer School is open to everyone. Info: www.rscds.org/events/summer-school-2026
The Games celebrate our rich culture and heritage with field and track events, piping, highland dancing competitions and heavyweight events including the world championships for tossing the caber at the grounds of Inveraray Castle. Info: www.inveraray-games.co.uk
Experience the thrill of the world's best athletes competing for gold, featuring a 10-sport program and approximately 3,000 athletes from up to 74 Commonwealth nations and territories, at this multi-sport event at venues across Scotland's largest city. Info: www.glasgow2026.com
A traditional Highland Games featuring Highland dancing, tossing the caber and hammer throwing as well as piping and track events on the beautiful Isle of Mull. Info: www.mullhighlandgames.com
Speyfest brings the best in traditional and contemporary Celtic music to Moray as the local playing fields are transformed into a bustling tented village for the weekend. Info: www.speyfest.com.
Whether you’re reconnecting with fellow Hunters or discovering the rich legacy of the clan for the first time, this special event promises a truly memorable experience at Hunterston Castle. The weekend will be filled with exciting activities for all ages and include the Muirhead Clan. Info: www.clanhunterscotland.com/clan-international-gathering
The Parliament is a world gathering of MacLeods, now held every four years, and centred in our ancestral homelands in Dunvegan, Isle of Skye. The purpose of Parliament is to bring MacLeods together from all over the world. Info: www.clanmacleod.org/parliament
Colourful pipe bands, elegant highland dancers, huge strongmen tossing the caber. A multitude of other events, stalls and entertainments spread out in a picturesque and historic setting. Info: www.bofagames.com
An experience like no other, the 2026 show A Call to Gather will again bring together the best of British Military with international performances from a global cast at the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade. Info: www.edintattoo.co.uk
One of the greatest celebrations of arts and culture on the planet. For three weeks in August, the city of Edinburgh welcomes an explosion of creative energy from around the globe. Artists and performers take to hundreds of stages all over the city to present shows for every taste. Info: www.edfringe.com
An unparalleled celebration of the performing arts and an annual meeting point for peoples of all nations. Committed to virtuosity and originality, the International Festival presents some of the finest performers and ensembles from the worlds of dance, opera, music and theatre. Info: www.eif.co.uk
Piping Live! returns in full force to the streets of Glasgow in the run up to the World’s once again as Glasgow hosts the world’s biggest week of piping, which attracts performers and audiences from across the world. Info: www.pipinglive.co.uk
Thousands of pipers and drummers in all grades from across Scotland, the UK and globe compete at the annual competition held at Glasgow Green. Info: www.theworlds.co.uk
The Edinburgh International Book Festival is a distinctive international showcase celebrating the written word, literature and ideas. It brings leading and emerging international, British and Scottish authors and thinkers together to inspire each other and audiences in an extensive programme of public events. Info: www.edbookfest.co.uk
Celebrate Scotland's sporting heritage and culture in Scotland's ancient capital. Info: www.stirlinghighlandgames.com
One of the largest and most spectacular Highland games in the world. Witness world-class pipers, dancers and athletes competing, including the World Highland Dance Championships. Info: www.cowalgathering.com
Scotland’s only hot air balloon festival fills the skies with colour, featuring funfairs, stalls, classic vehicles, and live music. Free and family-friendly. Info: www.strathavenballoonfestival.co.uk
A Viking themed festival that commemorates the Battle of Largs in 1263, between the Scottish King Alexander III and Norwegian King Håkon IV. Explore the living history Viking Village, see owl demonstrations and watch the famous battle re-enactment, burning of the long ship and fireworks display. Info: www.largsvikingfestival.co.uk
The festival will be held at the Low Green, Ayr and will feature impressive and daring flying display programmes on the Friday night and Saturday afternoon. The event Festival Village will also return, jam-packed with a fantastic range of family entertainment to suit all interests, free entry. Info: www.destinationsouthayrshire.co.uk/ayrshow
Held at The Princess Royal and Duke of Fife Memorial Park each September in the beautiful Cairngorms village of Braemar, it is the proud continuation of an ancient tradition of Gatherings here — one that can be traced back to the time of King Malcolm Canmore, over 900 years ago. Traditionally the Gathering has been ... Read more
From the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, Bronze Age burials, Iron Age brochs, Viking settlements and 20th Century Wartime relics, the festival offers something for everyone, from archaeology enthusiasts and local families, to first-time visitors and lifelong learners. Info: www.orkneyarchaeologysociety.org.uk
The new event, which will provide a platform for Gaelic music, language and culture to shine with performances and competitions. The Moray Local Mòd will include singing, piping, clàrsach, fiddle, and more, with the event designed to enable participation from all age and interest groups – including local school children and more experienced Gaelic speakers. ... Read more
A celebration of Scotland's last remaining wild and native oyster bed. Celebrity chef demos, live music, the Scottish Oyster Shucking Championships, amazing food & drink, family fun, and, of course, a huge oyster bar with our sensational native oysters, freshly landed from beautiful Loch Ryan. Info: www.stranraeroysterfestival.com
Traditional Games with pipe bands, athletics, clans and more at the Recreation Ground. Info: www.pitlochryhighlandgames.co.uk
Annual ten-day book festival in Scotland's National Book Town and one of the UK's best-loved literary events with over 200 events, including music, theatre, food and visual arts. Info: www.wigtownbookfestival.com
A world renowned celebration of Britain's most northerly native sheep, the Shetland textile industry and the rural farming community on these islands. Info: www.shetlandwoolweek.com
This annual festival is the highlight of the year for many and is said to be the most prestigious event for traditional Accordion and Fiddle Music within Scotland. Over 60 invited musicians, including full 6 piece Scottish Dance Bands, smaller groups, and solo musicians, as well as countless local musicians, bands and groups form the ... Read more
An outdoor sound and light show which takes place at Forestry & Land Scotland’s Faskally Wood near Pitlochry. Visitors will be treated to a series of choreographed sound and light shows while they follow the path around the forest. Info: www.enchantedforest.org.uk
Scotland’s leading Gaelic cultural festival featuring music, competitions, and performances celebrating Gaelic language and heritage. Info: www.ancomunn.co.uk
Iconic routes through the beautiful picturesque countryside of Scotland. Info: williamwallacerunningfestival.com
The finest comedians come to the Granite City for two whole weeks at various venues across Aberdeen. Info: www.aberdeenperformingarts.com/aberdeen-comedy-festival
Marks the transition from Summer to Winter with our characteristic mix of fire-play, drumming, and immersive performances at Calton Hill. Info: www.beltane.org
Saint Andrew’s Day is Scotland’s official national day. Celebrate St Andrew’s Day (or in Scottish Gaelic ‘Là Naomh Anndrais’), Scotland’s patron saint!