Local Events

Finzean, a picturesque village nestled in the heart of Scotland, is a vibrant hub of cultural activities and community gatherings. Whether you're visiting or a local, you'll find a variety of events this summer, from the quirky Ballater Duck Race to the popular Highland Games.

The Aboyne Farmer’s Market is held on the second Saturday of each month from April through October, with stalls on Aboyne Green from about 10 am to 2 pm featuring fresh local produce, artisan foods and craft goods.

The Banchory Farmer’s Market takes place on the third Saturday of every month at Bellfield Car Park in Banchory, typically running from 9 am to 1 pm, offering seasonal produce, baked goods, preserves and more.

In Ballater, the local farmers’ market is usually on the fourth Saturday of the month (April–November) on Church Green, with traders selling local food, crafts and seasonal treats from mid-morning into the early afternoon.

Summer

19-24 July
Royal Deeside Golf Week
royaldeesidegolfweek.co.uk
Royal Deeside Golf Week is a popular annual 72-hole Stableford competition played across four beautiful courses in Royal Deeside. Welcoming golfers of all abilities, the week combines friendly competition with stunning Highland scenery, social events, and the warm hospitality the area is known for, making it a highlight of the summer golfing calendar.
25 July
Banchory Show
King George V Show Park, Banchory
banchoryshow.co.uk
A traditional agricultural show at King George V Show Park, Banchory, the Banchory Show is one of Royal Deeside’s most popular summer events. Organised by the Deeside Agricultural Association, it’s a fun family day out featuring livestock classes for cattle, sheep and horses; trade stands; craft and produce tents; children’s attractions; Highland dancing; and rural competitions celebrating farming life in Aberdeenshire.
1 August
Aboyne Highland Games
Aboyne Green
www.aboynegames.com
One of Scotland’s most historic and celebrated Highland Games, the Aboyne Highland Games take place on Aboyne Green in the heart of Royal Deeside each year on the first Saturday in August. First established in 1867, this traditional gathering attracts competitors and visitors from across Scotland and beyond to enjoy a full programme of Highland sport and culture. Events include heavy and light field competitions, tug-o’-war, solo piping and massed pipe bands, Highland dancing, hill races and more, all set against the backdrop of the beautiful Aberdeenshire countryside. Throughout the day there are trade and food stalls, a fun fair, clan village exhibits and family entertainment, making it a fantastic celebration of Scottish heritage for all ages.
9-17 August
Ballater Victoria Week
Ballater
Ballater Victoria Week is a much-loved annual community festival held in Ballater each August, organised by local volunteers. Taking place alongside the Highland Games, the week features a wide range of family-friendly events including a scarecrow trail, duck race, dog show, hobby horse trials, discos and sporting activities. A lively celebration of community spirit, it also raises significant funds for local cause
13 August
Ballater Highland Games
Monaltrie Park
www.ballaterhighlandgames.com
The Ballater Highland Games are a long-established Royal Deeside tradition held annually on the second Thursday in August at Monaltrie Park, Ballater. Dating back to 1864, these spirited Games celebrate Scottish culture with a full programme of events including heavy athletics (like caber tossing and hammer throw), running races, hill races, solo piping and massed pipe bands, Highland dancing and tug-o-war. Alongside the competitions are trade and craft stalls, food and drink vendors, a fairground and family entertainment, creating a lively day out for all ages in the beautiful setting of Ballater on Royal Deeside.

Autumn

22 August
Lonach Highland Gathering and Games
www.lonach.org
Scotland’s friendliest games! The Lonach Highland Gathering & Games is one of Scotland’s most iconic traditional summer events and takes place annually in Strathdon on the 4th Saturday in August.
5 September
The Braemar Gathering
The Princess Royal And Duke Of Fife Memorial Park, Braemar
www.braemargathering.org
Since 1848, The Gathering has been attended regularly by the reigning Monarch and members of the Royal Family. The foot races at The Gathering are the world’s oldest, having been organised on a regular basis since 1832.
24 October
The Illuminator Night Trail Race
Glen Tanar Estate
illuminatorrun.co.uk
The Illuminator Run is a thrilling night-time trail race held on the stunning Glen Tanar Estate and starts in Aboyne, Scotland. Participants run through forest trails and rugged terrain, guided by head torches and glow markers.