Things to Do in Aberdeen

Aberdeen — the Granite City — sits on Scotland's north-east coast between two rivers and a long stretch of North Sea beach. It's a city built on quarrying, fishing and, more recently, energy, and that industrial confidence shows up in the size and quality of its cultural venues. The P&J Live is one of the biggest arena venues in Scotland, His Majesty's Theatre is arguably the most beautiful, and the Lemon Tree remains one of the most reliable rooms in the country for touring comedy and folk.

Aberdeen's events calendar leans strongly toward music and family programming, with a big year-round appetite for touring shows. Its student population — one of the largest in Scotland — keeps the pub gigs, quiz nights, club nights and comedy try-outs busy every week of term. The coastal setting also means summer brings festivals on the beach and along the harbour, while winter fills Union Street with lights and markets.

This guide covers the best of what's on in Aberdeen and how to find events beyond the obvious. Use the live listings below to see everything happening across the city right now.

Things to do in Aberdeen

See a show at HMT

His Majesty's Theatre programmes touring West End musicals, ballet, opera and pantomime year-round. It's one of the most striking Victorian theatres in the UK.

Catch a gig at the Lemon Tree or the Music Hall

The Lemon Tree covers indie, jazz, folk and comedy; the refurbished Aberdeen Music Hall is the go-to for classical and mid-size touring acts.

Family days out on the beach and beyond

Aberdeen Beach, Codona's Amusement Park and Duthie Park are family staples. Just outside the city, Crathes Castle, Drum Castle and Stonehaven's beach make excellent day trips.

Explore the harbour and Old Aberdeen

Old Aberdeen's cobbled streets and King's College quadrangle feel a world away from the city centre. The harbour and Footdee ('Fittie') are photogenic and full of hidden cafes.

Eat and drink around Belmont Street

Belmont Street and the surrounding lanes are the heart of the city's independent food and drink scene, and stay busy after big gigs and shows.

Aberdeen events by month

February

Granite Noir

Aberdeen's crime writing festival brings authors, screenings and walking tours to venues across the city.

May

Aberdeen Jazz Festival

Ten days of gigs and workshops at the Lemon Tree and Blue Lamp.

July

Aberdeen International Youth Festival

Youth orchestras, choirs and dance ensembles from around the world.

August

Nuart Aberdeen

Street-art festival that transforms the city's granite walls into open-air galleries.

November

SPECTRA Festival of Light

Four nights of large-scale outdoor light installations across the city centre.

December

Aberdeen Christmas Village

Union Terrace Gardens hosts the city's Christmas market, ice rink and funfair.

Aberdeen events FAQ

What's on at P&J Live?

P&J Live hosts most of the big arena tours that come to the north-east of Scotland. Filter this page's listings to P&J Live to see upcoming shows.

Is Aberdeen good for a weekend break?

Yes — the city combines big-name shows with easy access to castles, beaches and Deeside. A weekend is enough to see a gig, walk the beach and take in a couple of galleries.

How do I get around Aberdeen?

The city centre is compact and walkable; buses cover the wider city, and the train station is central for day trips to Stonehaven, Dundee and Inverness.

Upcoming events in Aberdeen

Community Save Aberdeen Arts Centre Quiz Night

Community Quiz Night

Quiz Night

Aberdeen Arts Centre Quiz Night

Theatre Up A Close

Up A Close

100 Years of Magic

TARGET 5

Comedy & Variety 100 Years of Magic

OASUS

ALICE FAYE

REGULAR MUSIC PRESENTS ALICE FAYE + SUPPORT