What's On Aberdeen: Your Guide to Cultural Events
The ultimate resource for discovering everything cultural in Aberdeen, from local events to creative happenings.
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 highlights Aberdeen’s creative scene, from theatre and music to visual arts. We focus on showcasing the city’s unique talent and supporting local voices.
Through stories, artist profiles, and event coverage, we’re here to share what makes Aberdeen vibrant. Sign up for free or support us and go ad-free for just £3 a month.
June
Adapted from Paula Hawkins’ bestselling thriller, this tense play follows Rachel as she’s drawn into a complex missing person case. Layer by layer, the story unfolds with gripping twists and suspense. A night at the theatre that keeps you on edge and guessing, it’s a sharp, atmospheric adaptation that captures the novel’s chilling sense of uncertainty.
Phoenix Youth Theatre brings Annie to the stage, a cheerful musical that’s great for the whole family. It features memorable songs that stay with you long after the final curtain. The story follows themes of hope and resilience, showing how believing in a better future can make all the difference.
A new show opens at Castlegate Gallery this Saturday, bringing together work from 13 artists including Frances Walker, Rita Kermack and Graham Fowler. It’s a lovely mix of styles and voices, and a great excuse to swing by Justice Street for a look.
Hazlehead Park hosts the first Granite City Festival Weekender, bringing three days of music, dancing and family-friendly energy. Expect a mix of house, techno, live acts and local talent across the weekend.
Belmont Community Cinema launches a free summer film series at Cowdray Hall, each film linked by a love of the sea. From high-seas drama to mythical monsters, the season opens with Master and Commander, followed by cult classics through July and August.
Fairytales get a playful remix in Tales Upon A Time, a new family show from Munelle School of Performing Arts. With runaway princesses, cheeky villains and musical twists, it’s a fast-paced adventure full of laughs for kids and grown-ups alike.
Aberdeen City Orchestra brings an exciting mix of iconic film scores and classical favourites to the stage. From the tension of Psycho to the adventure of Star Wars and Raiders of the Lost Ark, it’s a night of drama and storytelling. Perfect for film fans and classical music lovers alike.
Peacock is showcasing Pat Douthwaite’s Apples Kabuki suite of lithographs, on display together for the first time since 1988. These vivid prints are a striking blend of movement and bold character, capturing Douthwaite’s expressive take on Japanese Kabuki theatre.
Join a night of questions, games and good humour in support of Aberdeen’s only grassroots arts venue. Teams of up to six can compete, or solo quizzers can be matched on the night. Expect prizes, raffles and fundraising fun in the Café Bar.
Dod Dow’s journey as an artist began at Gray’s School of Art and has grown into a career spanning over 25 years. Best known for his powerful sports portraiture, his work has struck a chord with many. Dod’s focus has recently shifted to a more personal style. It’s a return to the joy of making art for its own sake.
Dive into the depths at Aberdeen Art Gallery’s new exhibition, Monsters of the Deep: Science Fact or Fiction?, opening 17 May. Explore centuries-old myths, from krakens to selkies, alongside real marine specimens like a megalodon tooth and narwhal skull. Uncover how folklore, fake news, and science fiction have shaped our understanding of the ocean’s mysteries.
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.
A new display at Aberdeen Art Gallery features Robert Gordon Nicol’s photographs of harbour life from 1800 to 1960. Capturing daily work around the port, it’s a timely look back ahead of this summer’s Tall Ships.
Aberdeen Art Gallery presents All Fired Up, a major display of over 170 studio ceramics from the Sandy Dunbar collection. Alongside works by renowned potters, visitors can get hands-on with selected pieces to explore different techniques and forms.
Weekly
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.
This group is perfect for anyone wanting to practice English while meeting people from different cultures and making new friends. Each week features a new conversation topic, guest speakers, or language games designed to build confidence in a relaxed, friendly setting.
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 steet 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.
Would you like to see your message here? Let's talk.
POST highlights Aberdeen’s creative scene, from theatre and music to visual arts. We focus on showcasing the city’s unique talent and supporting local voices.
Through stories, artist profiles, and event coverage, we’re here to share what makes Aberdeen vibrant. Sign up for free or support us and go ad-free for just £3 a month.
July
Explore the past and present of Fittie through this self-guided audio tour by artist Victoria Fifield. Featuring stories from residents, the walk reveals the hidden life of this harbourside village.
Bridge of Don Academy brings the 90s back with a school-set musical full of hits from Britney, Backstreet Boys, Spice Girls and more. It’s boyband vs girlband as teen drama, pop dreams and big decisions collide in a high-energy show with a nostalgic soundtrack.
This award-winning musical tells the story of Joe Casey, a teenager whose life splits in two after one big decision. Set to the music of Madness, including hits like Baggy Trousers and It Must Be Love, it’s a fast, funny and heartfelt show brought to life by a talented local cast.
Classic rock anthems, big lights and loud guitars—The UK Rock Show recreates the arena energy of the 80s with songs from AC/DC, Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Van Halen and more. It’s a night of power ballads, pyrotechnics and pure nostalgia.
Harlequin Productions presents School of Rock, the hit musical based on the film. When wannabe rocker Dewey Finn fakes his way into a teaching job, he transforms his class into a band. Featuring music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and a brilliant young cast, it’s packed with laughs, big tunes and plenty of attitude.
Aberdeen Metal Fest returns in 2025 with a massive lineup, headlined by hometown hardcore heroes Bitterwood. They’ll be joined by Catalysis, Atlantic Rift, Hammer, Datura, Horenda, Hyperstasis, Gype, Goodhuman, Wyldkat, Permacrisis, and Earthcaster. A huge day for the city’s heavy scene.
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.
A fun-packed adventure for little ones and their grown-ups, featuring favourite characters from the Milkshake! TV line-up. Join the gang as they head off on a holiday full of songs, dancing and silliness—from the beach to the zoo and beyond. Expect lots of laughs and plenty of chances to join in.
Join Aberdeen’s Countryside Ranger for a morning of beachside exploring. Discover the creatures living in rock pools and enjoy fun, sea-themed activities from Family Learning. Free and open to all ages—just dress for the weather and bring your curiosity.
Magician Garry Seagraves returns with another joyful mix of tricks, laughs and live magic. This family-friendly show is packed with surprises for kids and grown-ups alike, making it an ideal afternoon treat during the school holidays.
Sing maritime songs in a relaxed setting with the Harbour Voices community choir. Open to all, from beginners to seasoned singers, these friendly sessions include music, refreshments and time to chat.
Aberdeen Arts Centre and Surge are running free workshops for anyone curious about outdoor performance. Open to all experience levels, the sessions offer a chance to learn street theatre skills in a playful and supportive setting, with the option to perform during the Tall Ships weekend.
Create seaweed mono-prints on fabric using pigment inks with textile designer Helen. Materials are provided, including a tote bag, but bring your own light t-shirt if you’d like. Suitable for adults and kids over 5.
Scottish indie-pop favourites Randolph’s Leap bring catchy melodies, offbeat charm and brass-fuelled energy to Drummonds. They’re joined by Aberdeen’s own The Planet Hour, blending alt-rock with indie-folk and sharp songwriting. A free night of foot-stomping tunes and good humour.
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.
To mark the return of the Tall Ships, a new exhibition at Peacock takes a smaller-scale look at maritime heritage. Small Ships features 30 handcrafted model boats by Edward Smith, alongside nautical-inspired works by Joyce Cairns, Frances Walker and others.
Local legends The Lorelei return with their fierce mix of folk, punk and rock. With decades of gigs behind them, their live shows are anything but quiet. Support comes from The Killing Tide, a rising alt-rock band shaped by the coastlines of the North East.
Browse handmade jewellery, candles and homewares by local makers at this seaside craft fair. Expect sea-themed gifts, Fittie merchandise and a fundraising stall for the RNLI.
Story-driven folk rock with heart and grit. The Deadly Winters blend rich melodies, harmonies and sharp lyrics into a live set that moves from quiet emotion to rowdy joy. Their recent mini-album Ever Onwards shows a band full of momentum.
The Tall Ships weekend closes at Drummonds with a late-night Leisure Club Special and Kaiser Chiefs afterparty. Expect a big, free celebration with DJs, dancing and good tunes into the early hours.
Lucy Beth’s powerful one-woman show retells Bogie’s Bonnie Belle from Isabelle’s perspective. Performed in Doric, this moving spoken-word piece explores resilience, motherhood and survival in the North East, ahead of its run at the Edinburgh Fringe.
Artist Emma Wilson leads a relaxed watercolour session. Learn simple techniques, then create your own piece inspired by the sheds or sea views. A gentle, creative way to build confidence and enjoy some time with a brush in hand.
Expect bangs, sparks and flying facts as Ministry of Science Live explodes onto the Tivoli stage. This interactive science show mixes education with entertainment, celebrating invention and discovery in the loudest way possible. Perfect for curious minds of all ages.
Watch The Limit, a powerful documentary about restoring Scotland’s coastal seas. Made by OurSeas, it highlights the urgency and hope around marine sustainability and the people fighting for it.
A full-throttle celebration of Irish music, dance and song. The Ultimate Irish Hooley features the Keltic Storm band alongside a cast of singers and dancers. Expect traditional jigs, modern favourites and plenty of chances to clap, cheer and sing along.
Scots singer Joss Camerin shares traditional sea songs and stories in a warm and engaging performance. Set sail on a voyage through shanties and maritime heritage, suitable for ages 8+.
Artie returns with The Singing Kettle, bringing beloved songs like Three Craws, Aiken Drum and The Train to Glasgow to a new generation. A joyful, nostalgic family show full of music and Scottish storytelling—with a possible “Auld Lang Syne” finale.
Join Scottish storyteller Andy Cannon for magical tales of the sea in this special family event. Expect big stories, bold characters and plenty of imagination. Suitable for all ages.
One musical. One day. No sleep. A full-scale show built from scratch in 24 hours, all in support of the Save Aberdeen ArtsCentre campaign. Expect chaos, commitment and big-hearted performances from a cast of local talent.
Future
The Sun Day headline The Tunnels on Friday 1 August with support from The Rooks and Delirium. Early bird tickets are live, so grab them while you can. This one’s looking like a big step for one of Aberdeen’s rising bands.
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.
Nuart Aberdeen returns to its spring roots in April 2026, after a year-long break. Expect fresh murals, big names and that familiar festival buzz as artists take to the city’s walls once again.