Scotland's summer of celebration - News

This summer an array of festivals, concerts, and sporting spectacles is lighting up the country and filling the calendars of audiences keen to create memorable experiences.

These events not only entertain but also reflect VisitScotland’s strategic focus on place and destination. They showcase the unique character of Scotland’s communities and landscapes, while contributing economic, social, and cultural value.

Whether you're cheering on world-class athletes, watching your favourite artist perform, or soaking up art in a seaside town, the diverse portfolio of events across the country ensures there is something for everyone.

June highlights

June marked a vibrant start to Scotland’s summer.

Eden Festival in Dumfries and Galloway offered a lively mix of music and arts across multiple stages in a family-friendly setting.
Dundee Pride brought colour and inclusivity to the city.
The St Magnus International Festival in Orkney explored themes of nature through music, theatre, and literature.
Solas Festival in Perthshire encouraged thoughtful dialogue alongside creative performances.
East Neuk and Heartland festivals showcased world-class classical music and emerging Scottish talent in intimate and scenic locations.

A couple enjoying the Solas Festival. © VisitScotland / Luigi Di Pasquale

July highlights

July has brought a dynamic mix of cultural celebrations and sporting spectacles to communities across the country.

The imaginative Kelburn Garden Party and the international Coastal Rowing Championships in Stranraer took place in the southwest.
The Inverness Highland Games brought traditional flair to the north.
The month will wrap up with the 20th anniversary of the Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival, blending music, family fun, and Highland pride.

Silhouette of crowd at a festival. Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival. © VisitScotland / Iona Spence

July: international spotlight

This month also features some of Scotland’s most high-profile international events, drawing global attention to world-class venues and coastal cities.

Orkney 2025 Island Games

The Orkney 2025 Island Games are currently underway, highlighting global athleticism and island hospitality.
Scottish Opens

On Sunday 13 July, Chris Gotterup defeated a world-class field that included eight of the world’s top-10 players in order to claim this year’s Genesis Scottish Open title.

On 24 July, another elite field will tee off at the ISPS HANDA Women’s Scottish Open with the world number 1, Nelly Korda, making her tournament debut.

Both tournaments are a key part of Scotland’s portfolio of golf events that showcase the country’s status as the home of golf.
Tall Ships Races Aberdeen

The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen will soon transform the Granite City’s harbour into a spectacular maritime celebration.

The event will feature majestic ships from around the world and a packed programme of cultural festivities.

August highlights

August brings a thunderous crescendo to Scotland’s summer.

The Pittenweem Arts Festival will transform the Fife village into a vibrant gallery.
The European Senior Touch Cup will take place in Stirling.
The Stirling Highland Games will blend international sport with traditional Scottish competition.
Pride South Lanarkshire will bring a joyful celebration of diversity, inclusion, and community to Hamilton.
The Monument Mile Classic will bring a dramatic evening of elite athletics to Stirling.
The Nairn Book and Art Festival will bring literature, music, and maritime heritage to the Highland coast.

August: festival spotlight

Music festivals

Scotland is hosting a spectacular line-up of concerts, drawing music fans from across the country.

Audiences have already been wowed by Robbie Williams at Edinburgh’s Murrayfield, and star-studded line-ups, including Sting, Simple Minds, Biffy Clyro, Snow Patrol, The Script, and Gracie Abrams, at Glasgow’s Summer Sessions and TRNSMT Festival.

In the coming weeks, Oasis will play three sold-out nights at Murrayfield Stadium, followed by AC/DC on 21 August.

Sam Fender and Chappell Roan, in August, will electrify the stage at the Royal Highland Showground.

Together, these events cement Scotland’s reputation as a top destination for world-class live music.
Edinburgh festivals

August is Scotland’s cultural high point, with the Edinburgh Festivals taking centre stage. The city becomes a global hub of creativity, hosting:
- Edinburgh International Festival
- Edinburgh Festival Fringe
- Edinburgh International Book Festival
- Edinburgh Art Festival
- Edinburgh International Film Festival
- Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Artists, performers, and audiences from around the world converge in a celebration of ideas, expression, and imagination.
Pipe music

In Glasgow, the sound of the pipes will take centre stage as the city hosts Piping Live!, the world’s biggest week of piping.

The festival features performances, workshops, and competitions across the city, culminating in the World Pipe Band Championships at Glasgow Green on 15 to 16 August. This is an iconic event that draws thousands of spectators and the world’s top pipe bands.

These events also form part of Glasgow 850, a year-long programme marking the city’s 850th anniversary with cultural showcases, community events, and heritage celebrations throughout 2025.

More than entertainment

Scotland’s summer events are more than just entertainment. They are a celebration of place, identity, and community, helping grow the country’s visitor economy.

Each festival and event provides opportunities to connect, enjoy, and share memorable experiences. This reinforces Scotland’s reputation as a world-leading tourism and events destination.

Browse the full event listings on visitscotland.com