Aberdeen Summer Festival
May-October
The six-month period from May to October sees Aberdeen's calendar at its busiest, with various festivities and events falling under the Summer Festival umbrella. These include everything from community galas and country fairs to street markets and fun runs.
The Big Beach Ball
May
A boutique dance festival held in Aberdeen Beach Ballroom, The Big Beach Ball is one of the earliest events of the British festival circuit, providing two stages of electronic music as well as stand-up comedy, vintage markets and international performers.
Aberdeen International Street Market
May-June
A well-established street market taking place over three days, the event welcomes some 70 stalls selling produce from around Europe and the UK. Food tasting plays a big part, with handicrafts also prominent. It takes place on Union Terrace.
Aberdeen's Highland Games
June
More than 50 years in the running, Aberdeen's Highland Games are a showcase for traditional contests such as tug of war and caber tossing, as well as a variety of marching bands, piping competitions and more contemporary attractions. It takes place on the third Sunday in June.
Tartan Day
July
Centred on a grand parade along Union Street, Aberdeen's annual Tartan Day has long been a fixture on the calendar. Its principal aim is to celebrate the city's heritage and culture, and the day spills over into events at various venues around Aberdeen.