Our Festivals
We curate and produce an exciting series of annual festivals helping Aberdeen be a year round festival city!
From crime writing to cracking comedy, we’ve got something going on all year round to keep you engaged and entertained. Check out our festivals below and look forward to their return every year!
Our Festivals
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Delve
We are delighted to welcome you to join us as we Delve into the North Isles for a weekend celebrating the rich culture of Orkney and Shetland with music, film, and spoken word.
Our guest curator, acclaimed Shetland fiddle player Chris Stout is at the helm, weaving the stories and spirit of the North Isles into a unique weekend featuring exceptional artists from Orkney and Shetland in a programme rich in creativity, connection and unforgettable performances.
Friday, 6th to Sunday 8th February 2026.
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Granite Noir
Aberdeen’s Crime Writing Festival
Granite Noir is inspired by the incredible popularity of crime fiction in all its forms, by the fantastic contribution that Scottish writers make, by our love affair with Nordic Noir, on the page and on screen, and most of all inspired by Aberdeen, which is the perfect backdrop for the festival – steeped in history, atmospheric, quirky and with a strong sense of place.
DARE TO BE THERE
Tuesday, 17th to Sunday, 22nd February 2026.
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Light The Blue
Light the Blue is our multi-artform festival created for young people, by young people. Taking place in June across various city venues, Light the Blue is an electrifying line up of theatre, dance, music, film, circus and more.
It provides a stage for families, teenagers and emerging artists. The festival showcases the stunning young talent we have in the region and beyond and offers the chance to take those first steps into the world of performing arts.
June 2026
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International Season
Aberdeen Performing Arts International Season is a ground-breaking series of performances from some of the most innovative and cutting-edge performers from around the globe.
The International Season brings world-class entertainment to the North East of Scotland, making sure the stage is set to welcome the most unique and interesting touring companies from all corners of the world.
Expect the unexpected, with circus, acrobatics, comedy and family events creating unparalleled experiences and lasting memories.
July – September 2026
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Aberdeen Comedy Festival
Let’s get Ha Ha H-Aberdeen laughing!
The Aberdeen Comedy Festival was revived and revamped by Aberdeen Performing Arts in 2025 and it returns for another year. It saw the finest comedians come to the Granite City for two whole weeks bringing laughter into our venues and beyond. From leading names to rising stars, household favourites to local heroes, from stand-up to improv, Aberdeen was treated to the best of the best.
Laughter really is the best medicine…no prescription needed!
Saturday 19 September to Sunday 4 of October 2026.
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Aberdeen Queer Arts Festival
Aberdeen Queer Arts festival is a bright, bold celebration of the LGBTQ+ community in Aberdeen and beyond
It’s a festival dedicated to queer creativity and a chance to immerse yourself in a showcase of outstanding artistry. Truly a platform for queer brilliance.
Thursday 5 to Sunday 8 of November 2026.
Support Us
If you have a little extra and would like to support the work we do here at Aberdeen Performing Arts, then consider donating to us directly.
Your donation can help develop local talent, provide opportunities to those who don’t have the chance to join in or assist in producing unique performances.
