- Arts & Culture
Seven things to do in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire in June
June is one of the very best months to explore the north-east. Long evenings, the countryside at its greenest, coastal paths at their most walkable, and a packed events calendar to boot.
Whether you're a local looking for something new or a visitor planning your first trip, here's your guide to making the most of June in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
1. Watch the world gather for NAFCo
Aberdeen plays host to the North Atlantic Fiddle Convention from 24–28 June - a special anniversary edition bringing together artists, scholars, enthusiasts and audiences from near and far to explore and celebrate the vibrant traditions of fiddle music and dance.
The programme features concerts, workshops and collaborative performances across Aberdeen and the wider region, and with its mix of world-class headliners and grassroots sessions, there's something for every level of enthusiasm.
2. Explore Dunnottar Castle on a long June evening
Perched on a rocky outcrop just 1.6 miles south of Stonehaven and only 20 miles from Aberdeen, Dunnottar Castle has played a crucial role in Scottish history for over 1,000 years - hosting figures including William Wallace and Mary Queen of Scots, and famous for saving the Scottish Crown Jewels from Oliver Cromwell's army in the 1650s.
June's long days mean you can visit in the early evening light when the cliffs are at their most dramatic and the crowds at their quietest. A genuine bucket-list spot, best enjoyed at a leisurely pace.
3. Dance, listen and play at the Scottish Traditional Boat Festival, Portsoy
One of the most beloved community events on the Aberdeenshire calendar, the Scottish Traditional Boat Festival returns to the beautiful harbour at Portsoy on 13–14 June.
Heritage vessels line the quayside, craft stalls fill the streets, and live music carries across the water all weekend. This is the north-east at its most joyful - free to attend and utterly unmissable.
4. Wander around Footdee (Fittie)
Sometimes the best things are right on your doorstep. This charming historical fishing village sits at the east end of Aberdeen Beach Boulevard, beside the north entrance to the city harbour.
The picturesque stone cottages were designed around 1809 by architect John Smith, and the communal squares are full of quirky 'tarry sheds' - each uniquely and brilliantly decorated by their owners, with colourful little gardens and maritime paraphernalia dotted throughout.
Grab an ice cream from one of the cafes along the esplanade and watch the harbour vessels come and go. It costs nothing and never gets old.
Please be mindful of residents in Fittie and be respectful when exploring the area around their home.
5. Catch a show at Aberdeen Highland Games
The Aberdeen Highland Games at Hazlehead Park on 21 June brings together heavy events, Highland dancing, pipe bands, children's entertainment and a fantastic family atmosphere, all set against the backdrop of one of the city's most popular green spaces.
Aberdeenshire is famously known as Castle Country with over 263 castles, but it's events like this that remind you the region's living traditions are just as rich as its ancient stones. A proper Scottish summer's day out.
6. See Making Waves at Aberdeen Art Gallery
Something a little different is taking over Aberdeen Art Gallery this summer, and it's brilliant for all ages. Making Waves: Amazing Machines from the Cabaret Mechanical Theatre opened on 16 May and invites visitors to actively interact with the artworks by turning cranks, pushing buttons and setting the machines in motion.
The exhibition explores the world of contemporary automata, where engineering, mechanics and art combine to create playful moving sculptures.
7. Cheer on your duck at the Ballater Duck Festival
For pure, wholesome fun on Royal Deeside, nothing quite beats this. The Ballater Duck Festival splashes back into action on Sunday 7th June from 11am on the Village Greens and by the River Dee, with a full family fun day including stalls, local food producers, music and activities for children throughout the day.
Then at 3pm, 12 giant 8ft ducks are launched upstream to race down the river towards the bridge - first duck under wins. Born after Storm Frank in 2016, the festival has grown into one of Deeside's best-loved community events - a proper celebration of resilience and community spirit with a healthy dose of quacking chaos thrown in.
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