Events Across Scotland

Events can be incorporated as a unique add-on to itineraries where possible, or indeed may even be the whole reason for your client’s trip to Scotland.

Not all of these events work with travel trade or will be of interest to your clients, but it is worth being aware of the increase in demand for capacity around these times.

August 2026

• 2026 Commonwealth Games (Glasgow, 23 July–2 August 2026)
• Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival (Nr Inverness 30 Jul–1 Aug)
• Fringe by the Sea (North Berwick, 31 Jul–9 Aug)
• Newtonmore Highland Games (1 Aug)
• Bridge of Allan Highland Games (2 Aug)
• Edinburgh Military Tattoo (7–29 Aug)
• Edinburgh International Festival (7–30 August)
• Edinburgh Fringe Festival (7–31 Aug)
• Brodick Highland Games (8 Aug)
• Inverkeithing Highland Games (8 Aug)
• Piping Live (Glasgow, 10–17 Aug)
• Ballater Highland Games (13 Aug)
• Stirling Highland Games (15 Aug)
• World Pipe Band Championship (Glasgow, 15-16 August 2026)
• Edinburgh International Book Festival (15–30 Aug)
• Crieff Highland Games (16 Aug)
• Glen Urquhart Highland Games (22 Aug)
• Cowal Gathering (27–29 Aug)
• Birnham Highland Games (29 August)
• Stirling Pride (29 August)
• Largs Viking Festival (30 Aug–7 Sept)

September 2026

• Largs Viking Festival (30 Aug–7 Sept)
• International Ayr Show Festival of Flight (4–5 Sept)
• Braemar Gathering (5 Sept)
• BBC Radio 2 in the Park (Stirling, Sept 11-13)
• Stranraer Oyster Festival (11–13 Sept)
• Pitlochry Highland Games (12 Sep)
• Bloody Scotland (Stirling, 18–20 Sept)
• Wigton Book Festival (25 Sept–4 Oct)
• Loch Ness Marathon (27 Sept)

October 2026

• Enchanted Forest (Pitlochry, 8 Oct–8 Nov)
• The Royal National Mòd (Glasgow, 9–17 Oct)
• William Wallace Running Festival (10 October 2026)
• Aberdeen Comedy Festival (19 Oct–4 Nov)
• Comic Con Scotland (Edinburgh, 24-25 Oct)
• Samhuinn Fire Festival (Edinburgh, 31 Oct)

November 2026

• Enchanted Forest (Pitlochry, 8 Oct–8 Nov)
• Oban Winter Festival (13 Nov-20 Dec)
• Edinburgh’s Christmas (mid-Nov – Jan 2027)
• Hopetoun House Christmas Shopping Fair (27-29 Nov, near Edinburgh)
• Christmas at the Botanics (Edinburgh, 19 Nov-30 Dec)

December 2026

• Oban Winter Festival (13 Nov-20 Dec)
• Edinburgh’s Christmas (mid-Nov – Jan 2027)
• Christmas at the Botanics (Edinburgh, 19 Nov-30 Dec)
• Winterlight (Stirling, 27-31 Dec)

• UEFA EURO 2028 (Glasgow, summer 2028)

See All Events

Why should I build events into my Scotland itineraries? 

Scotland’s calendar is packed with world-class festivals, cultural celebrations, and sporting spectacles. These events create unique, time-sensitive reasons for clients to travel, adding exclusivity and excitement to their trip.

How do events add value for my clients? 

Events offer authentic experiences that immerse visitors in Scottish culture, whether it’s the thrill of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, the charm of Highland games, or the creativity of the Edinburgh Festival. They turn a standard itinerary into a memorable story.

Are events suitable for all types of clients?

Absolutely. From whisky enthusiasts attending the Spirit of Speyside Festival to music lovers at Celtic Connections, there’s something for every interest. Events can be tailored to FIT, groups, or niche markets like foodies and adventure seekers.

Do events impact travel planning?

Yes. Popular events drive demand for accommodation and transport, so early booking is essential. Advising clients to plan ahead ensures they secure the best options and avoid disappointment.

Can events be the main reason for visiting Scotland? 

Definitely. Many clients travel specifically for iconic events like Edinburgh’s Hogmanay or the Royal Highland Show. Positioning these as the centrepiece of an itinerary can be a strong selling point.

How can I use events to upsell?

Events create opportunities for premium experiences: VIP tickets, behind-the-scenes tours, or themed excursions. These add-ons increase revenue while delivering exceptional value to your clients.