This is August: Summer’s Last Plot Twist
A mix of local gigs, exhibitions, community events and curious happenings to carry you through the month.
Fit like culture fans?
Well, the Tall Ships weekend was pretty special, wasn’t it? We spent a couple of days darsing those fantastic vessels, chatting to interesting folk and playing at being proper journalists. It was great to meet and work alongside other independent writers and content creators, folk who care about telling stories in their own way. We had an absolute blast.
Then we went back with family and did it all again. It was just as good the second time round. We caught more of the events that ran alongside the festival, music, performances, workshops, and watched it all come alive in different ways. Watching those magnificent crews sail out of Aberdeen Harbour on the final day…I’m sure we weren’t the only ones wiping away a wee tear.
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The Tall Ships reminded us what Aberdeen can do when everyone pulls together. If you give people in this city events they actually want, backed properly by the council, by local organisations, by local businesses, artists and musicians, they’ll show up in huge numbers and make it their own.
But it can’t just be four good days and done. That kind of energy deserves a long tail. A legacy that’s followed through, not just talked about. It showed what’s possible. We're here for it all.
That said, we’re taking a little breather at the start of August. POST is still something we run in our own time, and it’s important to pause before burnout creeps in. We want to keep enjoying this as much as you enjoy reading it. So we’re going to jump straight into August. Even in the thick of the school holidays, there’s still loads going on, independent gigs, new theatre, community projects and things that are just a bit different. So let’s get straight into it.
What's on in August
Last Lighthouse Keepers
Conor Gault’s latest exhibition features portraits of Scotland’s last lighthouse keepers. Shot on large format film, the series captures the people behind these remote and often overlooked roles.
It’s a very personal body of work, focusing on presence, memory and place, inspired by Conor's own grandfather. His portraits offer space to reflect on a way of life that’s slowly fading from view. This is a brilliant show, and it was great to get along to the opening night. Catch this while you can.
Small Ships
Small Ships showcases hand-built model boats and prints by Edward Smith, drawing on the traditions of North East fishing communities and a family history rooted in life by the sea.
The exhibition reflects on maritime industries that shaped towns like Peterhead and Fraserburgh, and Aberdeen’s centuries-old harbour, once home to bustling markets and now dominated by oil and industrial traffic.
Hometown Sessions: The Dead Shadows + The Velvet Room
Drummonds launches its new Hometown Sessions series with three Aberdeen bands sharing the stage. Expect a night of indie, grit and energy from acts firmly rooted in the local scene.
It’s all part of a summer-long spotlight on homegrown talent, giving established bands and rising names space to connect and play live.
The Sun Day
The Sun Day have gained attention across Scotland’s music scene, with support from Scotland On Sunday, The Press & Journal, and Jim Gellatly on Amazing Radio, plus features on Spotify playlists.
They’ve toured with youth project Hit The Road, played Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival, and signed to Aberdeen’s Fat Hippy Records.
David Angus
David Angus brings an intimate evening of heartfelt songs, drawing on years of experience in Aberdeen’s music scene. His acoustic guitar carries everything from tender folk ballads to energetic rock anthems.
Known for connecting with audiences, whether busking or headlining, David’s performance is supported by Friendly Skies and Jamie Taylor. A night of honest storytelling and dynamic sound awaits.
SK Business Fair
We recently spent time with Kemi Eseyin, whose work is reshaping Aberdeen’s business scene. Thoughtful, practical and full of intent, she’s building space for Black-owned businesses to grow and connect.
The SK Business Fair is just one strand of a much bigger project. What stands out most is how rooted it feels in community, care and long-term commitment. Don't miss out on this.
Daytime Sessions: Like A Daydream
This Saturday afternoon set brings together shoegaze, dream pop and electronica for a laid-back listen.
Drop in for a few hours of swirling sounds and mellow beats curated by Yogi. Perfect for a slow weekend recharge.
Hometown Sessions: Saint Disco + Friendly Skies + Sister October
Aberdeen’s Saint Disco headlines the second Hometown Sessions night alongside Friendly Skies and Sister October. A triple bill of local sounds in a grassroots venue built for live music.
As with all Hometown Sessions, it’s free entry, offering a no-fuss way to catch bands doing what they do best.
Greyhope Morning: The Climate Crisis and Its Solutions
Join Aberdeen Climate Action’s Erik Dalhuijsen for a clear, accessible talk on climate change, what’s driving it, what it means for us, and how we can respond right now.
The session looks at how clean energy, practical tools and community action can shape a fairer, greener future.
Tom Gates: EPIC Stage Show
Liz Pichon’s bestselling books leap from page to stage in this fun-packed show. Tom Gates fans can expect doodles, jokes and big energy.
With catchy tunes and colourful characters, it’s a brilliant introduction for younger audiences and a treat for grown-ups too.
SIX
The six wives of Henry VIII reclaim their stories in this award-winning pop musical. SIX blends history with attitude in an 80-minute show that’s equal parts heartbreak, humour and empowerment.
With a chart-topping soundtrack and sold-out runs worldwide, this bold, brilliant show remixes Tudor tales for a 21st century stage. A fierce return to Aberdeen.
The Big Bounce 2025
The Big Bounce returns to Aberdeen this summer, filling the city centre with inflatables, slides and plenty of energy. But it’s more than just a day of jumping around.
Organised by local charity Charlie House, the event is designed to be inclusive, making sure families who often face barriers can join in the fun too.
Queer Folks’ Tales
This 5-star LGBTQ+ storytelling night returns between Fringe shows with a fresh lineup of voices. Expect funny, heartfelt and sometimes shocking tales about queer life in Scotland today.
Hosted by Turan Ali, the August edition features Jo Gilbert, Ian Macartney and Molly McLachlan. A celebration of lived experience, identity and bold storytelling.
Treasure Hub Open Day
Go behind the scenes at Aberdeen Treasure Hub and discover how the city’s collections are stored and cared for. Short guided tours offer a closer look at rarely seen objects.
Staff will be on hand throughout the day to chat about conservation and how collections are preserved for future generations.
C Duncan
Mercury-nominated composer and multi-instrumentalist C Duncan performs an intimate set at the Lemon Tree. His layered, cinematic sound fuses classical training with lush pop and subtle synths.
With three critically acclaimed albums and collaborations with Elbow behind him, Duncan brings a rich and distinctive voice to Scotland’s contemporary music scene.
Dean Friedman in Concert
US singer-songwriter Dean Friedman returns to Aberdeen for an evening of intimate, story-driven songs. Known for Ariel, Lucky Stars and McDonald’s Girl, his lyrics blend wit and warmth.
With a career spanning four decades, Friedman’s solo show offers charm, nostalgia and a few surprises from one of pop’s most distinctive voices.
Victoria Park Market Day
A relaxed afternoon in Victoria Park with local makers, food stalls, live music and family storytelling. Granite City Brass Band will perform throughout the day alongside pop-up events for all ages.
Hosted by Rosemount & Mile End Community Council, the event also supports a fundraiser for new local Christmas lights. This was a great day out last summer so expect more of the same.
Cirque: The Greatest Show – Reimagined
This updated edition of Cirque fuses circus spectacle with West End showstoppers. Expect jaw-dropping acrobatics, aerial feats and musical theatre hits in a dazzling, fast-paced production.
A visual and sonic spectacle for all ages, it’s bolder, braver and more breathtaking than ever. Big routines, big voices, and big thrills.
The Little Mermaid: Summer Pantomime
Join Ariel and friends in this family panto full of sea creatures, songs and silliness. A summer holiday treat for younger audiences looking for an under-the-sea adventure.
Expect cheering, booing and plenty of audience interaction in this colourful twist on the classic tale.
Inspired Gallery Meets: Nautical Decoupag
Join artist Lynsey Allan for a relaxed creative session inspired by the Tall Ships Races. Try your hand at nautical decoupage and make a decorative piece any seafarer would admire. All materials provided.
Part of the Monsters of the Deep exhibition programme. No experience needed, just turn up and get making.
Save AAC Quiz Night 2: The Sequel
The popular quiz night returns with new rounds, raffles and games, all in support of Save Aberdeen Arts Centre. Teams of six can take part, or solo quizzers can join a table.
A relaxed, friendly fundraiser with great prizes and plenty of laughs. Book now because tickets sold out last time.
Aberdeen Music Week
Aberdeen Music Week is a new festival built around community, connection and great music. It brings together performances, workshops, and conversations across genres, from jazz to hip-hop.
Created for the city and shaped by its artists, it’s a place to listen, learn and try something new. Everyone’s welcome whether you’re making music or just curious.
Tick, Tick…Boom!
Jonathan Larson’s semi-autobiographical musical follows a young composer in 1990s New York as he juggles creativity, relationships and ambition. An intimate, high-stakes story from the creator of RENT.
This version brings sharp songs and emotional honesty to a smaller stage. Raw, relatable and full of heart.
Clash of the Titans
Greek myths come to life in this 1981 fantasy classic, with gods, monsters and a winged horse brought to screen through Ray Harryhausen’s legendary stop-motion effects.
Presented by Belmont Community Cinema, this family-friendly screening features Perseus, Andromeda and iconic creatures in an epic tale of love and heroism.
Poetry in the Park
Poetry in the Park returns with an open mic for anyone who wants to share a poem or just enjoy the atmosphere. It’s free, informal and welcoming to all ages and styles.
This gentle afternoon gathering celebrates words, community and creativity in the open air.
The Restaurant Tour Aberdeen
Spend your Sunday wandering through Aberdeen, tasting your way across six hand-picked restaurants. Each stop brings you a new dish with a perfectly matched drink, all at your own pace.
You’ll get a simple itinerary through the app, with allergy notes and timings sorted. A laid-back way to discover places you’ll want to visit again.
Afrique en Cirque
This international circus show blends West African dance, music and acrobatics. With live drumming, Kora melodies and high-flying stunts, it’s a joyful celebration of strength and rhythm.
Created by Yamoussa Bangoura, it merges traditional African arts with modern circus flair. Part of APA’s International Season 2025.
Critical Mass Aberdeen
This inclusive monthly event encourages cyclists of all levels to ride together, explore the streets, and promote the need for better, safer cycling infrastructure.
While not a protest, you are encouraged to creatively dress up and light up your bike to raise awareness. It’s a great way to build a cycling community in Aberdeen and highlight the movement for safer roads.
Sid Ozalid: 1 Very Silly Old Man
Sid Ozalid brings his energetic mix of comedy, magic and rhymes to Aberdeen after acclaimed runs at Brighton Fringe and Belladrum. Think musical mayhem, mind-reading socks and interactive fun.
The show is family-friendly and supports the Save Aberdeen Arts Centre campaign. Expect silliness for everyone from age 8 to 80+.
Floating Heads + Monza Express + The Dead Shadows
Three Aberdeen acts, one loud night. Monza Express, The Dead Shadows and Floating Heads bring a mix of psych, garage and riff-heavy noise to The Blue Lamp stage.
Expect fuzz, feedback and a crowd that’s right up close. Free entry, good pints, and guitars turned all the way up.
Little Squirt
Darby James’ multi-award-winning musical comedy cabaret returns to Aberdeen. With original songs and sharp storytelling, Little Squirt explores sperm donation and queer parenthood with wit and heart.
It’s joyful, absurd and moving—part personal confession, part existential crisis, and all delivered with musical flair. Part of APA’s International Season.
Aberdeen Art Fair
Each summer, Aberdeen Art Fair fills the city with colour and curiosity, trading classical settings for oil paints, ceramics and the occasional abstract goat. Over 750 artworks will be on display.
Now in its thirteenth year, it’s a relaxed mix of artists, galleries and visitors. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just passing by with a coffee, it’s a friendly way to explore what contemporary art can be.
Hamish Henderson: An Artist’s Impression
This documentary follows folklorist and poet Hamish Henderson through the eyes of artist Charles Nasmyth. Rare footage and interviews explore his life, legacy and political impact.
Screening in the Café Bar, the film reflects on heritage, art and memory—offering a quiet, thoughtful close to the summer programme.
Symphonix Rock Orchestra
Symphonix blend rock classics with orchestral flair, combining electric guitars, strings and soaring vocals for an epic live experience. Think Queen, Metallica, Bowie and more—rewired through symphonic power.
It’s big, dramatic and full of surprises, offering a new twist on familiar favourites. A bold end to August’s live music calendar.
Niusia
Niusia explores identity, memory and intergenerational legacy through the eyes of Beth, the granddaughter of a Holocaust survivor. Weaving stories, interviews and silences, it asks how we remember what we never knew.
A personal and political performance about cultural inheritance and the spaces left behind. Thoughtful and beautifully told.
Until next time...
A huge thanks to everyone helping us keep the POST Aberdeen newsletter going. Your support means we can keep sharing the stories, events and people that make this city tick. We’re really grateful for it.
And a warm welcome to all our new Supporter Crew members. You’re brilliant, truly.
See you next month.
C&K 💛
