What's On Aberdeen: Your Guide to Cultural Events

The ultimate resource for discovering everything cultural in Aberdeen, from local events to creative happenings.

What's On Aberdeen: Your Guide to Cultural Events
Aberdeen beach from the air | Photo by Chris Sansbury

Aberdeen’s cultural calendar is buzzing, and POST’s What’s On page brings you a snapshot of what’s happening across the city. From live music and theatre to exhibitions and creative gatherings, there’s plenty to explore—whether you’re into big shows, community-led projects, or something a little more offbeat.

Thoughtful exhibitions, bold performances, unexpected venues, and the kind of events that bring folk together. It’s all happening right here—and we’re here to help you find it.

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POST celebrates Aberdeen’s creative scene, spotlighting everything from theatre and music to visual art. Our focus is on showcasing the city’s artistic talent and helping local voices reach new audiences.

We believe creativity is vital to Aberdeen and its communities. Through features, event coverage, and artist profiles, we’re here to support underrepresented voices and share the stories that shape the city.

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April

404 Ink's new anthology of Scottish queer writing takes centre stage with host Michael Lee Richardson. Hear Mae Diansangu, Robbie MacLeòid, Hannah Nicholson and Shane Strachan read and discuss their work in English, Gaelic and Scots. It's a celebration of diverse voices and languages—don't miss this literary feast!

Scottish Ballet brings back their award-winning production of The Crucible, fresh from acclaimed performances in London and the USA. Helen Pickett’s gripping choreography captures the hysteria of the Salem witch trials with raw duets, feverish ensemble scenes, and a haunting score performed live by the Scottish Ballet Orchestra. Stylish, intense, and unforgettable.

Rachael Rutherford’s work threads together memory, healing, and environmental reflection through the quiet power of textiles. Using fabric donated by friends and family—curtains, bedsheets, old clothes—she pieces together a material portrait of people and places, their histories woven into every frayed edge.

Oscar Edelstein brings his new concert Bitácoras to the Arts Centre, blending his “un-classic” piano with tapes, texts, and visuals by Welsh multimedia artist Deborah Claire Procter. Known for pushing musical boundaries, Edelstein’s work has drawn comparisons to Cecil Taylor, Zappa, and even Picasso. Expect something bold and unpredictable.

A bold solo show exploring mental health, poetry, and the chaos in between. Inspired by a run-in with The Waste Land, a pair of yellow sunglasses, and some unruly brain chemistry, this mischievous performance asks what happens when the thunder speaks—and you actually listen.

The Archie Foundation Variety Show is back with a big birthday celebration—25 years of supporting children and families across the North-East. Expect a brilliant mix of singing, dancing, music and magic, all honouring the courage of kids who’ve been helped by The Archie Foundation and NHS Grampian.

Kinkell Woods (but ye can ca her Elle, abdy does) is makkin’ her wye from oot in the sticks to the granite city to start a law degree (Fit, like it’s hard?!). She’s nae followin’ her ex there, honest. But if he happens tae be there too, she micht be able tae win him back. Or micht she realise there’s mair tae life, and mair tae her, than haein’ a mannie by her side?

Transglobal Underground returns to Aberdeen, bringing their unique fusion of Western, Asian, and African music styles. Supported by local band TITANS, blending Dub Reggae, Ska, New Wave, and Dance into their own Clash Reggae sound. Sounds like a brilliant night.

Jason Manford is back on tour with A Manford All Seasons, his brand-new stand-up show. Fans of his Absolute Radio slot will know he’s still on top form—expect sharp observational comedy, relatable stories, and plenty of laughs from one of the UK’s best-loved comics.

Breathe invites you into the forest from the point of view of an acorn. Follow a Seedling as it hatches and journeys through the undergrowth, uncovering fungi, roots, and hidden worlds. With stunning puppetry, intricate sets, live camera work, and a soundtrack mixing folk and drum & bass, it’s a wild, sensory trip through nature’s rhythms.

Ímar bring their high-energy folk to the Tunnels this April. With members from Mànran, Talisk, Rura, and Mec Lir, and a BBC Radio 2 Folk Award under their belt, this Glasgow-based five-piece are one of the most talked-about bands in the trad scene right now.

The Ross Couper Band brings together some of the top names in folk, with Ross Couper on fiddle, Michael Biggins on piano, Paul Jennings on drums, and Sam Mabbett on melodeon. Known for his fiery Shetland style, Ross has played with Bodega, Tom Oakes, and the Peatbog Faeries.

Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of) is back in Aberdeen after a smash-hit West End run and a shelf of awards. This bold retelling of Jane Austen’s classic is packed with pop hits, sharp humour, and five women taking on every role. Romance, chaos, and karaoke—what’s not to love?

Legally Blonde hits the stage at the Arts Centre in this lively musical from AEA Productions. Follow Elle Woods—and her trusty pup Bruiser—as she swaps sorority life for Harvard Law to win back her ex. What starts as a mission for love turns into a journey of self-discovery as Elle takes on snobbery, stereotypes, and scandal in pursuit of something bigger. Expect big laughs, catchy tunes, and loads of heart.

Huge returns with a show full of songs he definitely didn’t write—these are “family hand-me-downs” from ancestors like Batman, Ash Ketchum, and the entire Friends cast. With his wearable keyboard, signature deadpan humour, and some delightfully odd crowd moments, this is a weird and wonderful tribute like no other.

Warhammer fans, the new Hammer-Deen Gaming Club is your spot. Every Thursday from 5:30–9:30 pm at Inchgarth Community Centre, you can roll dice, paint models, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. With full-size tables, plenty of scenery, and a friendly atmosphere, it’s the hub of Aberdeen’s Warhammer scene.

Aberdeen’s biggest open mic night is here, offering a welcoming stage for performers of all levels to share their musical talents. Simply sign up on the night and step into the spotlight. It’s a fantastic way to connect with the local music scene, discover new talent, and enjoy a lively community vibe.

Snug runs every Friday at Arkade Studios Project Space—a cosy spot for grown-ups to unwind, make art, and enjoy a warm drink. Free materials are provided, so you can just drop in and create. On select Fridays, free artist-led workshops run from 10am–12 noon, with limited spaces available.

Nuart tours run every Sunday, with three brilliant routes to choose from. These relaxed, guided walks are perfect for exploring Aberdeen’s growing street art collection, whether you’re a first-timer or a returning fan. You’ll uncover the stories, artists, and ideas behind the murals that have transformed the city's walls.

Magma provides a free, supportive space for Aberdeen’s budding musicians to thrive. Open to anyone aged 14 and up, this weekly event features performances, workshops, and networking. Whether in the main room or the recording studio, it’s all about fostering local talent and creativity.

Explore Process, Process, Process at Aberdeen Art Gallery, a behind-the-scenes exhibition that reveals the tools, sketches, and workspaces shaping creativity. Offering a rare glimpse into the artistic journey, it showcases the magic that happens before a masterpiece is complete.

May

Award-winning comedian Rich Hall brings his brand-new show to the Tivoli Theatre this May. With razor-sharp wit, musical mischief, and off-the-cuff genius, he blends smart commentary, unpredictable tangents, and quick-fire laughs in a night that’s anything but idle chat. Expect big laughs and funny tunes.

Join Wayword for the Aberdeen launch of Heather Parry’s latest novel, Carrion Crow. This powerful gothic tale delves into mother-daughter relationships, sexuality, and class. The event will be chaired by Professor Timothy C. Baker, promising an engaging discussion. Don’t miss this chance to explore a spine-tingling narrative!

Fancy crafting your own gothic tale? Join author Heather Parry for a writing workshop inspired by preview objects from the upcoming Gothic exhibition at Sir Duncan Rice Library. Get spooked, get creative, and maybe enter our new Gothic Story Competition! It's a chance to unleash your inner Edgar Allan Poe.

Heather Parry shares her writing journey and path to publication in this event for North East writers. Get insider tips on building a successful writing career from the author herself. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your craft, it's a chance to learn from Parry's experience. Don't miss this opportunity to boost your writing ambitions!

Tutti Choir’s Spring Concert is coming up on 7 May at the Great Western Community Centre. With special guest Calum Huggan, it promises to be a warm, music-filled evening. Tickets are £10—email choirtutti@gmail.com to book your spot and be part of a joyful night of community and song.

Step into a world of Gothic terror in the latest exhibition from University Collections. Showcasing a rich collection of Gothic novels, the exhibition looks at how fear has been used to thrill and unsettle readers through monsters, villains, and transgressive themes.

Unleash your inner street artist with Outlines Collective and Grampian Wellbeing Festival. This hands-on workshop blends spray painting with mindful movement—discover how body and mind sync to create bold art. Suitable for ages 12+, all materials provided. Dress for mess! Book now—creativity meets movement under the Aberdeen sky.

Future

Inspired by the movement and history of Aberdeen Harbour, this writing workshop explores themes of arrival and departure. You’ll learn how to evoke a strong sense of place—real or imagined—while guiding readers through time, anchoring them in the past and imagining what’s to come.

The Tall Ships Race is back in Aberdeen, set to be one of the year’s biggest events. Expect 30-50 spectacular ships, a nautical village, a Union Street crew parade, light shows, parties, and more. With half a million visitors expected, it’s a huge celebration of maritime culture.

The Aberdeen Comedy Festival is back, with more venues across the city buzzing with laughter than ever before. Aberdeen Performing Arts is taking the festival to new heights, cementing the Granite City’s place on Scotland’s comedy circuit. Big names are already being announced, so stay tuned for more!

Ever had a late-night thought that felt brilliant but made no sense in the morning? That’s this show. Sara Pascoe brings her signature mix of hilarity and chaos as she navigates sleepless kids, a messy kitchen, and a husband who “doesn’t want to be in it.” Expect laughs, relatability, and a bit of the absurd.