Event
Handa Opera On Sydney Harbour: Puccini's Turandot
Astoria Cinema
Wed 26 Aug 2026
Ayrshire, Scotland
Things to Do in Ayr
The latest events, gigs, theatre, comedy and family days out in Ayr — updated daily from venues across the city.
About events in Ayr
Ayr is the largest town on Scotland's southwest coast and the gateway to Ayrshire's beaches, golf courses and Burns heritage. Its broad seafront, Victorian promenade and busy town centre make it one of Scotland's most pleasant coastal destinations, and the surrounding area is packed with castles, country parks and links golf.
The Gaiety Theatre is Ayr's cultural anchor, programming touring theatre, comedy, live music and pantomime throughout the year. Summer brings outdoor events to the Low Green and the seafront, while winter centres on the Christmas lights switch-on and festive concerts. Ayr is also a short drive from Prestwick, Troon and Turnberry, each with their own events calendars and championship golf.
Use the live listings below to see what's on in Ayr right now, from gigs and theatre to family days out and coastal festivals.
Upcoming events in Ayr
See all Ayr eventsEvent
Ladbrokes Ayr Gold Cup
Ayr Racecourse
Fri 11 Sep 2026
Event
Exhibition On Screen: James McNeill Whistler
Astoria Cinema
Tue 15 Sep 2026
Event
NT Live: The Misanthrope
Astoria Cinema
Tue 22 Sep 2026
Event
RBO 2026-27: MET Opera - Macbeth
Astoria Cinema
Tue 20 Oct 2026
Event
RBO 2026-27: The Royal Ballet - Manon
Astoria Cinema
Tue 27 Oct 2026
Event
RBO 2026-27: The Royal Opera - Carmen
Astoria Cinema
Tue 10 Nov 2026
Event
Gaiety on Tour – Can You Catch The Killer – Gangsters and Gatsby
Gaiety Theatre
Fri 27 Nov 2026
Event
Gaiety on Tour – Can You Catch The Killer – Mind Your Manors
Gaiety Theatre
Sat 28 Nov 2026
Event
RBO 2026-27: The Royal Ballet - The Nutcracker
Astoria Cinema
Tue 1 Dec 2026
Event
After Christmas Party Night
Clocktower Events Festive Marquee
Fri 1 Jan 2027
Event
Madama Butterfly – Ukrainian National Opera
Gaiety Theatre
Sat 2 Jan 2027
Things to do in Ayr
Catch a show at the Gaiety Theatre
Ayr's restored Victorian theatre hosts touring drama, comedy, tribute acts, live music and the annual pantomime. It's one of the best small theatres in the southwest of Scotland.
Walk Ayr's seafront and beaches
The town beach, Low Green and Esplanade are perfect for a coastal walk. Head north to Prestwick or south to Dunure for even more dramatic shoreline.
Explore Burns Country
Robert Burns was born in Alloway, on the edge of Ayr. Visit the Birthplace Museum, Alloway Auld Kirk and the Brig o' Doon for a literary day out.
Golf on championship links
Ayrshire is one of the world's great golf coasts. Royal Troon, Turnberry and Prestwick are all within easy reach, with public courses in Ayr itself.
Family days out
Heads of Ayr Farm Park, Pirate Pete's and Rozelle Park are firm favourites with families. The nearby Isle of Arran is also a popular day trip from Ayr.
Ayr events by month
- MayAyrshire Farmers' Markets
Regular markets in Ayr town centre showcasing local produce, crafts and street food.
- JuneAyrshire Coastal Path events
Guided walks, beach cleans and outdoor activities along the 100-mile coastal path.
- JulySummer beach events
Live music, food stalls and family entertainment on Ayr Low Green and the Esplanade.
- AugustAyr Show and agricultural events
Local shows and country fairs celebrating Ayrshire farming and food.
- NovemberAyr Christmas Lights
Festive light switch-on, late-night shopping and seasonal concerts in the town centre.
- JanuaryBurns Night in Alloway
Suppers, ceilidhs and readings celebrating Scotland's national poet around his birthplace.
Popular venues in Ayr
Ayr events FAQ
How do I get to Ayr?
Ayr has a direct train line from Glasgow Central with regular services taking around 50 minutes. It's also reachable from Prestwick Airport in under 15 minutes.
What's on at the Gaiety Theatre Ayr?
The Gaiety programmes touring theatre, comedy, live music, tribute shows and the annual panto. Check the listings on this page for current dates.
Is Ayr a good base for exploring Ayrshire?
Yes — Ayr is well placed for Burns Country, the Ayrshire coast, Royal Troon and the ferry to Arran. It's a good value alternative to staying in Glasgow.