Summer Highlights And Hidden Finds In Aberdeen This Week
A guide to the week's lively shows, creative markets and exhibitions worth exploring.
Hey, welcome to our first weekly update. I can't promise we'll manage to write one every week, but while we can, we hope you'll find it useful. Mid-August in Aberdeen is a balancing act between making the most of the last warm days and feeling the first hints of (shudders) autumn.
This week’s events reflect that shift, with options for lively nights out, slow afternoons, and chances to try something new. Whether you want to see acrobats soar across the stage, chat with local makers, or explore a quiet exhibition, there’s plenty to fill the week.
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Be part of Ten Feet Tall and help celebrate the creativity of the North East. From bold performances to hands-on projects, every event connects people and tells local stories in exciting ways.
Join us in shaping a sustainable, diverse and accessible arts scene. We’re creating opportunities for emerging talent while bringing communities together through shared experiences, fresh voices and new perspectives.
By the water and under the sea
Seaweed – The Alien Wonderstuff
12 Aug, Greyhope Bay Centre
Marine biologist Richard Gwynne-Jones explores the unusual biology, long history, and role of seaweed in keeping our planet healthy. With views over the harbour and free tea and coffee, it’s a thoughtful start to the week.
The Little Mermaid: Summer Pantomime
13–14 Aug, Tivoli Theatre
A summer panto with sing-alongs, jokes, and plenty of chances to cheer or boo. Packed with colourful characters, it’s a lively holiday treat for younger audiences.
Markets and making
Inspired Gallery Meets: Nautical Decoupage
15 Aug, Aberdeen Art Gallery
Artist Lynsey Allan leads a hands-on session where you can create a maritime-themed piece to take home. All materials are provided, so you can just turn up and make.
Summer Market
16 Aug, Bonnymuir Green
Local makers set up in a favourite community garden, with food from Bonny Café to enjoy as you browse. Entry is £2, under-16s free.
Tea Tree Summer Market
16–17 Aug, Aberdeen Art Gallery
Two days of textiles, jewellery, ceramics, and illustration from Scottish makers. A relaxed way to spend time in the gallery.
Ruthrieston Community Centre 150 Years Celebration
16 Aug, Ruthrieston Community Centre
Mark 150 years of Ruthrieston Community Centre with an afternoon of film, art, and conversation. A documentary by Rachel Wood captures the building’s school days, while local artists share work created and taught on site.
Stages and spotlights
Cirque: The Greatest Show – Reimagined
12–13 Aug, His Majesty’s Theatre
A mix of circus spectacle and West End music, with aerialists, contortionists, and high-wire acts in quick succession.
Save AAC Quiz Night 2: The Sequel
15 Aug, Aberdeen Arts Centre
A quiz night with raffles, games, and a mix of questions. Funds raised support the arts centre.
Four Magicians
16 Aug, Aberdeen Arts Centre
Sleight of hand meets comedy and audience surprises in this award-winning show from four performers.
The Devout – Depeche Mode Tribute
16 Aug, Tivoli Theatre
A tribute spanning the band’s career, with synth-heavy arrangements and atmospheric staging.
Time to linger in the gallery
Exhibition from 12 Artists
Until 13 Sept, Castlegate Gallery
Castlegate Gallery hosts a group exhibition featuring work by 12 artists, including Ade Adesina RSA, Cameron Ross, Kanita Sim, and Hugh Rowson RSW. Expect a range of painting, print, and mixed media pieces in various styles.
Last Lighthouse Keepers
until 16 Aug, The Print Room
Conor Gault’s portraits capture Scotland’s last lighthouse keepers, offering a glimpse into a way of life that has almost disappeared.
Small Ships
until 30 Aug, The Worm Gallery
Thirty model boats by Edward Smith, displayed alongside maritime art from Joyce Cairns and Frances Walker.
With a mix of big performances, creative workshops, markets, and quieter exhibitions, this week’s events offer plenty of ways to spend time before summer fades. Get out there and make the most of it.
